A DEDICATED Solihull carer stepped out and raised funds for vital dementia services.
Emma Ruscoe cares for her husband Simon who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease in 2020.
The couple have received ongoing support from Alzheimer’s Society, and the charity’s Trek26 fundraising event seemed the perfect way for Emma to help support them.
Emma took part in the Suffolk Coastal Walk challenge with two friends.
The 56-year-old said: “We named our team Indian Dreamers – Indian Dream is our favourite curry house in Solihull.
“When Simon was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease in 2020, aged just 55, we contacted Alzheimer’s Society and it was the best decision we’ve ever made.
“Our dementia adviser was amazing – and all the support we’ve had since from Alzheimer’s Society has been brilliant.”
So far Emma has raised £1,800 which will help the charity’s vital support services and fund research for those living with dementia and their loved ones.
In June, Emma received the Adult Carer of the Year award from Carers Trust Solihull for the positivity she exudes while providing care, balancing her career and supporting her son’s mentally and emotionally through this difficult time.
Emma said: “I was shocked and humbled – I don’t feel I do anything different to any other carer. But it did give me a boost. So many people who care don’t realise they are carers.
“I’m Simon’s wife and his carer – you just get on with it.”
Emily Lyle, fundraising manager at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We’re so incredibly grateful to Emma and the other Indian Dreamers for putting in the hours to train for and complete a Trek26. Their involvement has helped raised money and much-needed awareness of dementia.
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