A song for Alzheimer’s
510. Harry Gardner
A school pupil from Chelmsford has written a song for his grandmother battling dementia, raising money and awareness for Alzheimer's disease.
Harry Gardner was inspired to write a song for his Grandmother, Maureen, who was battling Alzheimer’s disease. In December 2015, on a family visit to his grandparents, Maureen failed to recognise him for the first time. This moment moved Harry so much that when he went home, he wrote a song about the experience.
Harry’s moving tribute, ‘Not Alone – Song for Alzheimer’s’ describes the pain of losing a loved one to the devastating disease. Harry’s video of himself performing the song on Youtube has now had nearly 200,000 views. The song is also for sale through Amazon and iTunes with all the money going to Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Harry has also set up a JustGiving page to help raise money for Alzheimer’s Research UK. In total, Harry has raised nearly £ 5,000 with donations coming in from around the country.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“Harry’s song ‘Not Alone’ is a wonderful tribute to his grandmother, Maureen. It has helped to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease among the hundreds of thousands of people who have viewed it. The money Harry has raised through this single will also help the important work of Alzheimer’s Research UK in fighting this devastating disease. I am delighted to recognise Harry as the UK’s 510th Point of Light.”
Harry Gardner said:
“This is really cool. I was nervous to post this song at first but it’s been such an amazing experience and receiving this award from the Prime Minister is just unbelievable.”