Walking With Purpose: Dahlia Steps Up for Abbeyfield & Alzheimer’s Society

Walking With Purpose

Abbeyfield Living Society recently partnered with the UK's leading dementia support and research charity, Alzheimer's Society, giving colleagues the opportunity to take part in Memory Walks and raise vital funds for our schemes and directly benefit our residents. 

Following our official new partnership with Alzheimer's Society, Dahlia, a carer at Lee House in Wimbledon, has signed up for her very first major event: the London Memory Walk at Potters Fields Park on Sunday 4th October.

We caught up with her to talk about why she chose to lace up her walking shoes, her journey into care, and what makes life at Lee House so special.

A calling from the heart

Dahlia has been part of the Abbeyfield family for just over a year, though her roots in the care sector run much deeper.

"Caring has always been something I’ve felt passionate about, and it’s a career that I find incredibly rewarding," Dahlia shares.

That passion carries a profound personal meaning. "Losing my mother at a young age meant that I never had the opportunity to care for her in the way I would have wanted to. Because of that, being able to care for and support other people who need a helping hand has a very special meaning to me."

That personal history shapes every shift she works. Whether she is easing someone's day, offering a steadying hand of companionship, or simply being present when a resident needs a friendly face, Dahlia finds deep fulfillment in the everyday connections. "For me, caring isn’t just a job — it’s something I genuinely enjoy and feel passionate about. It gives me a sense of purpose and allows me to make a positive difference in people’s lives."

Joy, laughter, and a bit of dancing

Ask anyone at Lee House what stands out about Dahlia, and they’ll likely mention her infectious energy. While care work comes with its unpredictable challenges, Dahlia brings a wonderful warmth and energy to any space.

"What I love most about my job is the happiness and positivity in the work environment," she says. "I’m lucky to work with such friendly and supportive staff, which makes coming to work enjoyable and creates a lovely atmosphere for everyone."

That supportive nature extends to the residents, who she counts as a daily source of happiness. "I especially love spending time with the residents, getting to know their personalities and having a laugh with them. They often make me laugh just as much as I make them smile!"

And then, of course, there is the dancing. "I also love bringing a bit of fun into the home. The residents love watching me dance for them, and seeing them smile, laugh and enjoy themselves makes me so happy. Those little moments of laughter, connection and joy are what make my job so special."

Taking on the London Memory Walk

When Abbeyfield announced the partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, Dahlia didn't hesitate.

"I saw the opportunity and thought it would be fun, and decided I want to do it for Abbeyfield," she said.

Her Team Leader, Jersey, has stepped up as coach and cheerleader, helping her prep and build up her exercise routine ahead of October.

As she prepares to head down to Potters Fields Park on Sunday 4th October, Dahlia is channeling all the enthusiasm she brings to Lee House right onto the pavement. "I am looking forward to crossing the finish line and for the experience, as this is my first walk on such a large scale."

We'll be sharing updates of Dahlia's progress on the day, so make sure your're following us! We're on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. 

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