There has been a great response from the public following the story on the front page of the Merimbula News Weekly (April 10) about The Wobbles ukulele group request for iPod Shuffles to give to dementia patients, loaded with music.
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Organiser of the MEM (Music Evokes Memories) program, Adeline Perrett said that within hours of the story getting out, she had the first call from Nyngan, north west of Dubbo.
This was soon followed by offers of Shuffles from Bendigo, Newcastle and Brisbane.
"It's been absolutely fantastic, better than ever I could have expected. The story travelled so far," Ms Perrett said.
She now has 12 iPod Shuffles which have been sent to her for the project and a further six promised.
Wobbles member Mike Maxworthy said local volunteer with Dementia Australia Annie Dullow contacted her head office about the project.
Co-incidentially a presentation on supporting people living with dementia was planned at Bega on Friday, April 26 which will provide an overview of the impact of dementia on the person and their families.
Now The Wobbles have been asked to be part of the presentation and hope to contribute more than their music by talking about the MEM project.
Ms Dullow said her personal experience has motivated her to help develop dementia friendly communities in this region.
"I cared for my mum who had younger onset dementia, which means she was diagnosed in her early 60s," Ms Dullow said.
"Through my relationship with Mum I got to truly understand how people living with dementia remain the person that we know and love and how they can enjoy life by continuing to be involved in community activities.
Ms Dullow said the concept of developing a dementia friendly community begins with raising awareness and increasing understanding about dementia.
Dementia Australia is hosting the information session in the Bega library on Friday, April 26, 1-2pm. It will also include a performance by The Wobbles.
Free entry, bookings not necessary. For inquiries, email bronwyn.baker@dementia.org.au or call 6255 0722.