In memory of Maria Deftereos

By Melissa Lechte

I am raising funds for Dementia Australia in memory of my loved one.

For those that know my family, know that my Yiayia (Maria) passed away in 2019 and had suffered years from Dementia.
Dementia is a dreadful disease that take people away from you before they have passed away. It is a disease that I wouldn't wish upon my worst enemy.
I was very young when my Yiayia was diagnosed, but, I would have loved to have had the opportunity to spend time with her now, in my 20s learning about her culture, where she came from and just maybe, she would have taught me some of the greek language! Haha.
For the month of September, I will be walking between a small-medium sized marathon (21km-42km) to fundraise for Dementia Australia, specifically the research behind this dreaded disease.
I would love your support, a couple of dollars or even just a like and share to get the word out about my fundraiser.
*If you walk regularly anyway, why not sign up yourself? Get the word out!
**If you'd like to donate, please click the link in this post.
For those that aren't quite aware of what Dementia is:
'Dementia is the term used to describe the symptoms of a large group of illnesses which cause a progressive decline in a person's functioning'.
- Dementia is NOT a normal part of ageing.
- Dementia is progressive and irreversible
- Non medical interventions can have a positive effect such as: music, evoking emotions/memories, reducing agitation and alleviating stress as well as inducing relaxation and improved sleep.
Dementia can affect anyone.
The support would mean the world, I appreciate anyone who helps get the word out or could spare a few pennies.
Thank you!
RIP Yiayia.


My Updates

EIGHTH - THIRTEENTH SEPTEMBER

Wednesday 14th Sep
Over the last few days, I've continued walking and have walked 15.3km which means I am now sitting at a total of 58.3km. I have officially gone over the full marathon distance and will continue to walk for the month. I can't believe the impact it has had on my mental health, I am feeling SO much better and am sleeping so much better. 

SEVENTH of September

Wednesday 7th Sep
September 7th.
Today, I walked a total of 7.7km. This brings my total up to 43km!
I have now JUST reached OVER a FULL MARATHON DISTANCE. 
I am super pumped about my progress so far!

FOURTH, FIFTH and SIXTH of September

Tuesday 6th Sep
September 4th, 5th and 6th.
Over the last three days, I have walked a total of 11.1km, my total now being 35.3km.
I have officially made my way over the small marathon mark and am making my way towards the medium marathon mark!

THIRD of September

Saturday 3rd Sep
September Third - Dementia Aus
Today, My sister and I did a little bit of the ‘George Bass Coastal Walk’ and our trip today added another 7.2km to my total, totalling 24.2km.
I have officially gone over the distance of a small marathon and am making my way to the medium sized marathon! 

SECOND of September

Friday 2nd Sep
September 2 - Dementia Aus Fundraiser
No photo for today, I like to start and end my day with a walk without my phone. I was accompanied today by my Mum and Sister on my evening walk!
My walks today have added another 9km  to my total, totalling 17km.

If you’ve got some spare change, I’d be forever grateful for a donation!

FIRST of September.

Thursday 1st Sep
8km walked today while practicing some road safety with my dog Finn. It was such a beautiful day to get out and walk!

Thank you to my Supporters

$21.10

Anonymous

$21.10

Brooke Thornhill

Xoxo

$58.03

Kathy Mooney

$21.10

Anonymous

$105.50

Aristea Lechte

Proud of you xx