Devoted daughter goes extra mile for mum to boost dementia fight

Finance firm BGL Group have donated funds to Windsor Care Home. Front from left BGL Group Andrea Oleski and home manager Andrea Rowe with residents

Big-hearted Andrea Olseski, who swapped Boldon Colliery for Peterborough 20 years ago, came back to the borough to make a grand gesture in support of her mum Christine Bell and fellow residents at Windsor Nursing Home, in Hebburn.

Miss Olseski made the move south to start work with digital distributor BGL and she convinced her bosses to splash the cash to give a welcome boost to residents battling dementia.

Miss Olseski’s mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 61 and was moved into Windsor Nursing Home, which provides round-the-clock specialist dementia care, two-and-a-half years ago.

The nationwide firm donates millions of pounds to good causes each year - and Employee Experience Manager Miss Oleski put in a successful submission for a £1,000 donation to be spent closer to home.

Miss Olseski was back in South Tyneside with her BGL team to hand over the bumper cheque, which will be used to fund sensory equipment, animal therapy and entertainment for the residents.

As well as handing over the donation to staff, residents wer able to enjoy a dance show laid on during the day.

She believes vital therapy care can provide a vital boost to people fighting all forms of dementia.

Miss Olseski said; “My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 61, she is now 69.

“Watching my mother deteriorate with the cruel disease over the past 8 years has been heartbreaking. My mother’s care needs have increased over the years.

“Two-and-a-half years ago, mums care needs could no longer be met at home so she went into the Windsor Nursing Home for 24 hour care.

“My mother is unable to walk, talk and feed herself now and there is very little expression.

“However, we do sometimes we do get the odd smile and a look of contentment, this usually when there is some form of therapy.”

Miss Olseski is delighted to do her bit to help her mum and residents at the nursing home.

She added; “BGL gives £3 million pounds a year to local, national and international causes.

“I put in a submission for a donation which was successful.

“I was delighted to be able to help.”

“I know £1,000 won’t cure dementia, but forms of stimulation are so important and can make a difference.”