A SON who tragically lost his father to dementia is preparing to treat Touchwood visitors to some Irish music this St Patrick’s Day as he raises money for Alzheimer’s Society.
Meriden resident David McGrath will serenade shoppers with ‘Irish music, song and the craic’ in memory of his father, Patrick, who died of dementia last November.
Patrick McGrath was born in Waterford in South East Ireland and achieved success and an Irish army boxing champion before moving to Small Heath in Birmingham with his with Jeannette and children – Anthony, Susan and David.
A passionate poet and writer in his free time, Patrick’s tragic battle with dementia inspired his son David to raise funds and awareness of Alzheimer’s Society in his father’s memory.
David said: “My father hailed from Waterford Ireland but lived in Birmingham and Solihull for many years.
“He was a renowned poet and author writing for the Irish community in the Midlands.
“He died of dementia as did his partner of 20 years. So my father was both a dementia carer and ultimately a dementia victim.
“I wanted to do something to honour his memory and raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society for whom he held great affection for.
“It would be fab if people could come along, join in the fun and throw a few bob in the collection box for the Alzheimer’s Society.”
David will be accompanying himself on guitar while singing traditional and modern Irish songs between 10am and 2pm on Thursday in Cresent Arcade within Touchwood.
All proceeds will go to the Alzheimer’s Society.
