March 25, (THEWILL) – To raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, the England national team will play without names on the back of their shirts during the second half of their upcoming international friendly against Belgium at Wembley Stadium on Monday night.
The initiative aims to shed light on the memory loss symptoms experienced by those living with dementia.
As the players retake the pitch after half-time, their names will “disappear” from their jerseys, symbolising how precious memories can fade for individuals affected by Alzheimer’s.
This meaningful gesture is part of the England Football Association’s partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, a leading charity organisation dedicated to supporting those affected by the condition.
“Our goal is not only to encourage fans to donate towards our early diagnosis research but also to support their loved ones just as much as they support their football team,” said Kate Lee, Chief Executive Officer of the Alzheimer’s Society.
“This means taking crucial first steps in seeking a diagnosis if they suspect someone they care about may be affected,” she added.
The campaign aims to destigmatise the disease and promote early diagnosis, which can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer’s.
By leveraging the popularity of the England national team, the initiative hopes to reach a wide audience and inspire individuals to seek support for themselves or their loved ones if they notice any concerning symptoms.
Through this powerful statement, the England squad and FA are using their platform to raise awareness and drive positive change in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects millions of individuals and families worldwide.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
