‘If I can raise some money and some awareness, let’s do it’
An 82-year-old woman was one of five who got a tattoo raising money for an important cause. Jackie had never been inked before, but rolled up her sleeves on Saturday, November 29.
The forget-me-not tattoos were designed by Nick of Reaper Ink in Beverley who inked them for free. The meaningful design was about remembrance and the money raised was split equally and donated to Cottingham Manor care home and Alzheimer’s Society.
Joanne Golden, Cottingham Manor’s activities & events lead, came up with the idea and was one of those who got a tattoo. She said, “thanks to overwhelming kindness and support”, they had smashed their original target of £1,000 and raised more than £2,000.
Trish and Jackie, who have relatives at Cottingham Manor, bravely went under the needle. Casey and Tanya also got inked, “showing solidarity, strength, and commitment to such a meaningful cause”, Joanne said.
At 82, Jackie was the oldest client Nick had ever tattooed. Joanne recalled: “I said to her, ‘Would you mind having a tattoo at that age?’ She laughed and said, ‘Do you know what, if I can raise some money and some awareness, let’s do it.'”
The portion of money being donated to Cottingham Manor will fund activities to enrich the lives of residents with memory loss. Joanne previously explained: “They won’t remember their family members, they won’t remember their names, but you play a record or someone has come in to do some entertainment, and they can sing along the words to every song. It is amazing.
“The fundraiser will enable us to get singers in more regularly for them. And even dancing – they just love dancing.”
A spokesperson for Alzheimer’s Society said: “We are truly humbled and grateful for this incredible gesture of support. Joanne, Trish, and Jackie – your commitment to raising awareness and funds for Cottingham Manor and Alzheimer’s Society is inspiring. Jackie, taking on your very first tattoo at 82 is nothing short of amazing!
“Please pass on a huge thank you to Nick at Reaper Ink for donating his time and talent to make this possible. The Forget-Me-Not design is such a beautiful symbol, and it means so much to everyone affected.”
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