A Calne resident has set herself a heartfelt challenge this month – crocheting every day throughout March to raise money for Alzheimer’s research.
Britney Blackford is crocheting for between one and two hours each day as part of a personal fundraiser inspired by her grandmother, Christine, who has been living with dementia.
Pictured: Britney Blackford’s grandmother Christine with Britney’s daughter Ezra-Mae.
Britney said early signs of the condition began appearing a couple of years after her grandfather passed away, and watching the effects of the illness on someone so close to her has been heartbreaking.
She said: “To see such an amazing person getting so confused, not knowing who her family are, leaving the house in the middle of the night thinking it’s the afternoon and slowly deteriorating is heartbreaking.”
As part of the challenge, Britney is creating a dementia-friendly sensory blanket for her nan. The blanket will feature a range of different textures designed to provide comfort and stimulation.
She has also crocheted small forget-me-not flowers - the symbol of dementia awareness - which will be added to the blanket. Some will also be made into brooches to sell as part of the fundraiser.
Alongside the blanket, she is also crocheting hair scrunchies which will be sold on a “pay what you can afford” basis, with all proceeds going towards the fundraiser.
Britney is also appealing for help from the local community and is asking whether anyone might be able to donate spare yarn to support the project.
She said: “If anyone has any scrap yarn they would be willing to donate I would be extremely grateful.”
The fundraiser aims to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s research, with donations helping scientists continue the search for treatments and a potential cure.
Britney added: “Whether you donate £5 or £50, every little helps.”
People who would like to support the fundraiser or donate can find more information online.
Donate here:
https://socialsync.app/fundraiser/cr-pj96zm01pjzdq
Want to know what’s on in Calne? Visit our local events page for listings and to find out how to add your own events for free. Follow us on Facebook, X, TikTok and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news. Have you got a story for us? Email editor@calnenews.com
