Paul Anderson & Catherine McGovern

We're fundraising to support kids with dementia and their families

Raising money for Childhood Dementia Initiative is about supporting an urgent cause that too often goes overlooked. In Australia, a baby is born every 3 days with a childhood dementia disorder from which they will die. 50% of these children will die before their 10th birthday and 70?fore they reach adulthood.

Childhood dementia causes a similar number of deaths in Australia to childhood cancer for patients aged 0-14 years. Yet most people are unaware of it.  We didn't know about it until Catherine started working with Meg at the Childhood Dementia Initiative in 2021 and learning about what these children and their families experience has been a deeply humbling experience.

This is because children with childhood dementia experience significant pain and suffering in their short lives.  Their condition robs them of their cognitive and physical abilities at the time that other children are progressing and achieving the independence that children with childhood dementia will never experience.  These children do not get access to adequate care and support and their families are placed in the horrific situation of watching their children deteriorate and die slowly.  With no cure, they are left without hope.

By supporting this initiative, you’re helping advance scientific research AND providing families with the support they desperately need. Every donation helps build better understanding and will lead to better treatment, and, ultimately, a cure. All monies donated go direct to CDI; they are not used to fund any element of the walk.

This is a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families who need it most and we appreciate your support!!