Alzheimer’s Society Local Hero
1683. June Coser
June Coser, aged 90, from South Shields, is an Alzheimer’s Society local hero who has raised thousands of pounds through various activities like bingo afternoons and packing bags at supermarkets.
When June’s late husband Bill Coser was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, she was motivated to fundraise and get involved with her local Alzheimer’s Society group. June joined the South Tyneside Alzheimer’s Carers Committee and went on to become its chairwoman, dedicating the last 14 years of her life to organising fundraising activities in her local area.
In a personal letter to June, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“I want to write to thank you for your service to others by raising thousands of pounds to support people living with Alzheimer’s, in memory of your late husband.
“The contribution you have made to the ‘South Tyneside Alzheimer’s Committee’ is inspiring.”
In response to receiving the award, June said:
“I just love what I do; knowing that it helps to create a greater awareness of Alzheimer’s, and helps those who find themselves in a position where they have to deal with the condition – in either the capacity of an individual suffering with the illness themselves, or caring for a loved one who does, it is massively rewarding!
To receive such a reward is such a huge honour, I feel so privileged to have been chosen.”
Emma Lewell-Buck, June’s local MP for South Shields said:
“I am delighted that June has been recognised by The Points of Light awards scheme. Like June I know the pain of losing someone close to you from this terrible illness. That June has used her experience to dedicate her energies and time to raising money and increasing awareness for the Alzheimer’s Society is humbling. I am pleased even in her ninetieth year and in the middle of a global pandemic she is showing no signs of stopping. June is the very best of us, an amazing advocate for our town and a credit to her family. We in South Shields are very proud of her.”