The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) officially launched its annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, supported by Aviva Ireland, at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium today. The event brought together a powerful mix of ambassadors, advocates, and local champions from across the country for a symbolic Mini Memory Walk around the stadium.

This year’s Memory Walk will take place nationwide on Sunday, 21st September 2025, to mark World Alzheimer’s Day. More than 35 locations across Ireland will host the walk, offering families, friends, and those living with dementia the opportunity to honour old memories and create new ones together.

A dedicated group of celebrity ambassadors gathered at the stadium for the launch, each with a personal connection to the cause. Among them were Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain, former Justice Minister Nora Owen, TV presenter Martin King, fitness expert Dee Murphy, entrepreneur Ellen Kavanagh Jones, beauty expert Pamela Laird, and broadcaster Teena Gates. Each will also take part in walks around the country in September, walking for, with, or in memory of loved ones who live or lived with dementia.

They were joined by local champions from all four provinces of Ireland, as well as advocates who use the services of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Together, they helped raise awareness of the condition’s widespread impact and the importance of community support.

Memory Walk is a major fundraising event for ASI, supporting the 64,000 people in Ireland living with dementia and their families. In 2024, nearly 3,500 walkers raised over €150,000, which went towards essential services including Daycare, Family Carer Training, Social Clubs, and a National Helpline.

Speaking at the launch, ASI CEO Andy Heffernan said the event is about more than raising funds—it’s about connection. “Memory Walk is more than a fundraising event. It’s a chance for people to come together, to support one another and share experiences. Thanks to Aviva’s support for the next three years, we hope to see even more people taking part and making memories together.”

Brian O’Neill, Head of Sponsorship, CSR & Communications at Aviva Ireland, echoed the sentiment, saying, “This is a meaningful event for families and communities. We’re proud to support ASI in helping raise awareness and much-needed funds for dementia services nationwide.”

Registration for the 2025 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk is now open at www.memorywalk.ie. Adult entry is €20, and children’s packs are available for €5, with early bird rates available until 30th June. Participants will receive a t-shirt and are encouraged to share their experiences online using the hashtags #ASIMemoryWalk2025, #WalkWithAviva, and #ASIMakingMemories.

 

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Walking is the most popular form of physical activity and has no barriers on age, gender or ability.  This is a great event, supported by one of our leading sporting sponsors, and can become an autumnal version of Darkness into Light

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