For most people, crossing the Sahara would be the adventure of a lifetime. For Penarth resident Lee Griffiths, it’s something far more personal.
This October, the NHS worker at University Hospital Llandough will spend several days trekking through one of the world’s harshest landscapes to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society. Every step will be in honour of this father, Chris.
“Dementia affects the whole family,” says Lee. “The trek is about making sure other families receive the support that has meant so much to us.”
Chris, a lifelong Cardiff City and Wales supporter, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease several years ago. While the diagnosis came as a devastating shock, football has remained a constant throughout his life. Last year he walked out alongside the Wales team at Wembley before the England game as one of 22 fans living with dementia. He also enjoyed the chance to meet Wales legend Joe Ledley.
Inspired by his father’s journey, Lee decided he wanted to create something closer to home. Working with Cardiff Rugby Community Foundation and Alzheimer’s Society, last year he launched the Sport and Memory Café at Cardiff Arms Park. The fortnightly sessions combine games, quizzes, sporting memories, with current Cardiff Rugby players dropping in to meet everyone and plenty of conversations. The sessions regularly have between 20 and 30 people, providing a welcoming space for people living with dementia, their carers and loved ones.
For Lee, the project has shown just how important community can be. “When people come through the doors, they’re not defined by dementia,” he says. “They’re rugby supporters, sports fans, husbands, wives, parents and grandparents. The friendships that have grown here have been incredible.”
Now Lee is preparing for his biggest challenge yet. The Sahara trek will test his endurance, but he says the motivation is simple. “If my dad can face dementia with the positivity he does every day, I can certainly face a few days in the desert.” This isn’t just about fundraising. It’s about raising awareness that life doesn’t stop after a dementia diagnosis.
With the right support, meaningful friendships, treasured memories and new adventures can still be made.
