TV presenter Rob Rinder has called for increased research and improved support for individuals living with Lewy body dementia, a condition that has personally affected his family. His appeal comes as he lends his support to the annual Scarf For Lewy event, organised by the Lewy Body Society, aimed at raising awareness of the second most common form of neurodegenerative dementia among older people.
Rinder’s father struggled to receive a correct diagnosis in his 60s, and the family found it challenging to cope with the symptoms of this relatively unknown degenerative brain disease. Lewy body dementia affects various cognitive functions, including memory, movement, and behaviour, often leading to significant distress for both patients and their families.
The Lewy Body Society, the UK’s only charity dedicated solely to supporting those living with Lewy body dementia, has been holding its autumnal “woolly wraparounds” at prominent UK landmarks for the past two years. Hundreds of knitters from cities across the UK, from Manchester to Margate, have contributed by crafting over a thousand scarves for the event.
This year, on Thursday, 17th October, Central Hall in Manchester will be transformed as it becomes the venue for the third mega yarnbombing event. The hall will be adorned with more than half a mile of scarves, creating a visually striking display just in time for the colder weather.
Speaking about the initiative, Rinder expressed the emotional significance of the project. “Every single stitch represents another person, another family, who have been affected by this disease. This great big scarf is enveloping those who have loved ones suffering from this disease and those experiencing it themselves,” he said.
He further emphasised the need for more funding and support for those affected by Lewy body dementia, stating, “We can bring our arms around this community and tell each other and the world that there will one day be sufficient funding for a cure, better information, and care for everyone involved.”
Vicky Roberts, founder of Scarf For Lewy, whose husband lives with Lewy body dementia, remarked, “This year’s Scarf For Lewy is going to be bigger and better than ever before. Central Hall is going to look spectacular in its winter woollies, thanks to everyone’s hard work.”
The event will also feature well-known personalities, including the charismatic Christopher Biggins and the Lord Lieutenant of Manchester, Wendy Jones. Additionally, there will be a performance by Dancing with Dementia, adding to the event’s community spirit.
Jacqui Cannon, CEO of the Lewy Body Society, highlighted the struggles faced by families dealing with Lewy body dementia. “We are grateful to Rob for speaking out about the challenges of getting a proper diagnosis and the ongoing care needs for those affected,” she stated.
Cannon urged for greater public awareness of Lewy body dementia, which is often misdiagnosed and requires specific support and treatment. “We want more people to know about Lewy body dementia so that those affected receive better support and more scientific research into the disease can be undertaken,” she added.
Following the event, the lovingly crafted scarves will be repurposed and donated to The Brick, a charity based in Wigan that supports individuals at risk of homelessness.
Supporters and those interested in Lewy body dementia are invited to attend the free Scarf For Lewy event at Central Hall Manchester on Thursday, 17th October, from 10 am to 2 pm.
