Aunty Ellen Memorial Fund

In 2018 we lost our wonderful Aunty Ellen Halstead (formerly Gould) to dementia.

'Aunty' Ellen was actually my great aunt on my Dad's side of the family but she was also my godmother...a role which she took very seriously. She played an incredibly important part in my childhood, helping me to see the world positively through challenges and always reminding me of the utmost importance...of having a laugh!

Quite a famous resident of our little town of Whitworth, Aunty Ellen would often be seen on one her many daily walks talking to all she met with a smile, a joke, a laugh and a 'God Bless'. Her favourite place to walk with her sisters Margaret and Kathleen was undoubtably Cowm Reservoir or 'round't res'.

So it is with this in mind I have decided to try to raise some funds this year with half going to the Alzheimer's society and their ongoing research towards a cure for Dementia and half towards having a bench installed at the reservoir in memory of Aunty Ellen and her sisters.

Those who know me will be aware that I began a fitness journey this time last year (Jan 2021) with couch to 5k, I passed that challenge and this year I am looking to push to 10k and beyond and hopefully take part in the Manchester 10k if it goes ahead. I will be documenting the ups and downs of the journey as I have been already on instagram and Facebook. However, I decided this is not enough of a sacrifice if I am to ask people to hand over their hard earned cash...so I also decided to give up one of my favourite things in the world and something I am completely addicted to: chocolate. I finished what Christmas chocolate I could yesterday (31st Dec 2021) and will not consume any now before New Years Day next year (1st Jan 2023).

I know some people would not struggle to give up a treat like Chocolate, but believe me I certainly will!

My Aunty Ellen was and is a legend and I would love to give her her own place to sit with her sisters up at the res along with helping with research towards a time when no-one has to go through what she and those who love her did.

Thanks for taking the time to read this, and huge thanks if you decide to donate!

Here goes!