Two dedicated teachers from Meadowside Academy in Knaresborough are set to spend an entire weekend locked inside their school to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.
From Friday 17th October to Monday 20th October, Mrs Rowe and Miss Cotton will remain inside the building without leaving, taking on a range of creative and challenging tasks to support the cause.
The unique event is part of Mrs Rowe’s fundraising journey towards the London Marathon, where she’ll be running to honour loved ones affected by dementia.
Throughout the weekend, the pair will auction off their time to colleagues, completing jobs around the school that often get overlooked—such as tidying, sorting and tackling long-forgotten cupboards.
The aim is to raise as much money as possible while bringing the school community together for a good cause.
Speaking about her fundraising challenge, Lauren said:
“I'm running the London Marathon for the Alzheimer's Society in honour of the incredible people in my life who’ve faced this devastating disease.
“My Granda Willie fought a long and difficult battle after an early diagnosis, showing resilience even as his memories slipped away.
“My Gran’s journey was heartbreakingly short, while both my Auntie Tiny and Uncle Johnny endured lengthy and painful struggles that were incredibly hard to witness.
“Each of their stories left a mark on my heart, and I run not only to honour them but also for my future self—because Alzheimer's can be genetic, and this cause hits close to home.”
She added:
“I also run with the hopes of my daughters in mind—not just as potential carers, but in the hope that one day, a cure will be found.
“Every step I take is for them, for those we’ve lost and for a future without this cruel disease.”
The Meadowside community hopes the unusual challenge will not only raise funds but also spark conversations about dementia and the importance of ongoing research.
Updates and activities from the weekend will be shared as the teachers take on their three-day stay inside the school.
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