A song a day for 30 days

I'm raising funds for people with dementia!

I am raising funds for Dementia Australia throughout the month of November, otherwise known as Remember November. In honor and memory of my Grandfather, who sadly passed away in September 2021 after a long battle with Dementia. 

But I need your help! Please make a donation to support my efforts and help me reach my goal to beat dementia.

I will be learning 1 new song (or section of a song) on the guitar a day for the 30 days of November. There has been a lot of studies associated with music and music therapy with Dementia patients. Dr. Maggie Haertsch, CEO of the Art's Health Institute says "music awakens a part of the brain not impacted by dementia and evokes responses such as singing, movement and brief moments of reconnection with loved ones".  A study on the impact of musical therapy, not just listening but also learning to play was carried out in 2015 by the Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge. It improved participants dementia symptoms and general well-being. There are three modifiable risk factors (risks that can be changed through your lifestyle choices) that can significantly reduce your risk of Dementia. The one I will be focusing on in this fundraiser is Mind Health, playing an instrument takes a lot of concentration, skill building, dedication, patience and memory, all contributing to improving your mind health. 

Music is also something that my Grandfather and I always shared, he enjoyed Blondie and John Denver, playing the guitar and the keyboard. So, i feel this is a perfect tribute to be expanding upon my skills and playing the guitar for a fundraiser in his memory. I feel honored to be able to do something that makes me feel connected with him still whilst also making a difference and supporting an important cause. 

All funds raised will support the work of Dementia Australia to provide vital support services for people living with dementia, their families and carers. These services include counselling, support groups, education and training.

So, if you have some funds to spare I would really appreciate any donation to the cause. I will be posting a video of the song I have learnt onto my Instagram Stories/Reels, Facebook Feed and TikTok as well as my donation page daily, so you can all follow this journey. Thank you for your support. 

For those who wish to follow my journey, you can do so via my public TikTok page - @el.at.waratah & my Instagram - el.at.waratah