People of Mayo encouraged to raise a cup of kindness as Alzehimer's Tea Day turns 30

Mark your calendars for a very special cup of tea! The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) has just launched the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer’s Tea Day, and is calling on the people of Mayo to raise a cup of kindness and help make a difference to those living with dementia, along with their families and carers, on Thursday, May 2.

The 30th anniversary is a significant milestone as statistics show that at least 30 people in Ireland are diagnosed with dementia every single day, while there are an estimated 2,279 people living with dementia in Mayo.

There were many supporters in attendance at the Tea Dance launch in the Radisson, Stillorgan, including broadcasters Pat Kenny, Ciara Kelly, Barbara Scully and Teena Gates, plus entrepreneur Pamela Laird.

Also present were Fair City actors Bryan Murray and Una Crawford O’Brien, who are the official ambassadors for this year’s Alzheimer’s Tea Day. Bryan, who bravely shared his own Alzheimer's diagnosis in 2022, and his partner Una Crawford O'Brien are inspiring the nation to get involved this year to mark the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer’s Tea Day and commented: “Every cup of tea counts. Join us on the 2nd of May or any day that suits you and be part of something truly special.”

Alzheimer’s Tea Day brings communities together across Ireland to support the ASI's vital work, providing much-needed resources and services for the 64,000 individuals living with dementia and their families nationwide. With the number of people diagnosed with dementia expected to double in the next 25 years, the need for support has never been greater.

Over the last 30 years, Tea Day has raised €10 million to help support people living with dementia across Ireland, along with their families and carers. Register on www.teaday.ie now to receive your free organiser's toolkit, packed with everything you need to host a successful Tea Day event. Funds raised through Alzheimer's Tea Day support critical services like the Alzheimer's National Helpline, daycare programmes, home care, family carer training, social clubs, and Alzheimer's cafes. Your contribution can truly make a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.

Speaking ahead of the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer’s Tea Day, Mairéad Dillon, head of fundraising for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, commented: “Whether you host an event, attend one or simply donate, every action brings us closer to a future where no one faces dementia alone. Together, let's raise a cup of kindness and make the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer's Tea Day the most successful yet.”