COLLINGWOOD footy star Ben Crocker has signed up as an ambassador for Dementia Australia and is ready to hit the ground running.
The talented half forward has a close personal connection to dementia following his father Paul being diagnosed with early onset dementia at the age of just 59 in 2014.
Ben will take part in the Melbourne Memory walk & Jog at Westerfolds Park, Templestowe on April 22 in his first outing in his new ambassadorial role.
The event challenges participants to participate in a 5km walk, 5km run or 10km run in order to raise awareness and funds for people impacted by dementia.
The AFL star said he and his family were ready to share their experiences in order to help support people in similar circumstaces.
"Everybody at the club was stunned to hear that someone could be diagnosed with dementia while still in their 50s and that proved to me how important it is to increase awareness and understanding of the condition in the community," he said.
"My teammates at Collingwood have been so supportive of me and my family. it really has made a difference in helping us to best enable Dad to stay at home and remain engaged with his family- that is so important to him and all of us."
The event is Dementia Australia's largest community awareness and fundraising event.
Registrations can be made online or at the event on the day from 7am.