MSP praises Giffnock man's marathon for Alzheimer Scotland

The purpose of the annual event is to increase awareness of the condition and enhance the lives of individuals who have received a diagnosis of dementia.

Mr Carlaw also praised the efforts of his former staff member Euan Waddell, who was brought up in Giffnock, and supported Alzheimer Scotland by running the Edinburgh Marathon.

Mr Waddell has raised more than £2,900 for the charity to honour his grandfather who sadly passed last year.

The Scottish Conservative politician told the Barrhead News: “I congratulate my former head of office Euan on his terrific achievement.

"A truly fantastic effort and well done to Euan.”

The theme for Dementia Awareness Week 2024, which took place between May 27 and June 2, was: Your Voice, Your Care, Your Future.

This reflected that each individual with dementia has their own unique experience and there is a diversity of needs, preferences and aspirations for people living who are living with the condition.

Mr Carlaw met with representatives of Alzheimer Scotland in Edinburgh to discuss the vital work carried out by the charity and joined with MSP representatives from across Holyrood to mark the annual event.

Alzheimer Scotland support a range of organisations including Mearnskirk Helping Hands based in Newton Mearns, who provided excellent assistance to Euan's family.

“Dementia Awareness Week is a very important event in the annual calendar and Alzheimer Scotland has done a great job in raising awareness of the condition,” added Mr Carlaw.

“The charity offers crucial support for people who are living with dementia and to ensure that nobody has to face the condition on their own.

“The Alzheimer Scotland website provides a range of comprehensive information on dementia and the charity also has a 24-hour helpline."

Alzheimer Scotland operates a freephone 24-hour dementia helpline and the contact number is 0808 808 3000.