For more than a month, all the volunteers have been on alert to organize the race in the best possible conditions. Everything must be ready for the afternoon of January 4, which delights Sophie Mazur in advance, very proud to organize the event with her association. Armbands, medals, a king cake and hot chocolates: volunteers are mobilizing to fine-tune the details for the big race. Apart from this event, France Alzheimer 54 provides social support for people affected by the disease, and the caregivers who support those they care for. Located in Pulnoy, the association builds links with regulars and new members: “We created a little family within the association”explains Sophie Mazur with emotion.
Some objectives for 2025
For the new year, Sophie Mazur hopes for an increase in donations: an essential point for the association. Indeed, events and activities are solely financed by donations and grants. Also, the association plans to organize new activities, including relaxation and Qi gong workshops.
Create connections and escape loneliness
Concerning new members, Sophie Mazur and her volunteers are happy to welcome them, but they regret that the helpers come too late. The illness must be quickly considered and denying it is a bad solution unfortunately used by many people affected by the illness. France Alzheimer 54 is a beneficial alternative to the heavy loneliness that patients can suffer from. In addition, the association offers training for caregivers who wish to support a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's disease. The president of the association is delighted with the positive feedback that she and her team receive from those receiving care and help: “We have thanks and we have a lot of sympathy that is being created”she explains. If the association had 40 members two years ago, it helps 180 today. This encouraging development motivates the president to continue helping people affected by Alzheimer's disease, as her mother once did: “My commitment, my therapy, is to tell myself that we are here to help all the people who have gone through the same stages as us and to show them that we must continue to hope and live”she said.
France
