Wales will take part in a powerful and emotional moment of unity at Wembley Stadium on 9 October, as players walk out side by side with fans living with dementia ahead of the international friendly against England.

Chris Griffiths, a lifelong Cardiff City fan, will be one of 22 mascots walking out with the England and Wales players to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and dementia. The match, a designated Alzheimer’s Society International fixture, will carry a powerful message of solidarity.

In another poignant gesture, players’ names will be removed from the backs of their shirts for the second half, symbolising how dementia can take away vital memories.

Chris, whose diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease came as a devastating shock to his family, has always had football at the heart of his life, from playing in local leagues to refereeing youth and adult matches. His passion for the game runs in the family, with his father having played for Barry Town and even trialled for Arsenal.

Chris was nominated for this momentous occasion by Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, where he is a regular attendee at The 1927 Club - the charity's dementia-friendly social hub. The 1927 Club provides a warm and welcoming space for individuals living with dementia or Alzheimer’s to connect through the game they love.

The 1927 Club offers more than just a weekly meet-up. It’s a safe place to relive cherished moments, celebrate a shared love of Cardiff City, and build meaningful friendships with others who understand the challenges of living with dementia or Alzheimer's.

Through a partnership with Alzheimer’s Society and Sporting Memories, the club provides activities that bring joy, spark memories, and strengthen community bonds. Whether it’s reminiscing about classic matches or taking part in fun group activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

In the lead-up to the fixture, Chris was given the chance to meet Cymru legend Joe Ledley, a special opportunity made possible through his involvement with The 1927 Club and the Community Foundation’s nomination.

Chris said:

“The 1927 Club is so much fun. Once you get in there - you’re away! The people at the Community Foundation, both those who run the sessions and those who attend, really make my morning. I always look forward to going. It’s a relaxed atmosphere where you can just be yourself, and the staff have always made us feel so welcome. It’s been brilliant - unbelievable.”

Matthew Pugh, Head of Services at Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, shared:

“We’re delighted to offer such a unique and special experience for Chris at the Wales fixture against England at Wembley Stadium, while also helping to raise awareness of this condition. We’re so proud to have such a brilliant ambassador for The 1927 Club. Chris truly deserves to be recognised in front of his friends and family on such a big stage.

We’d encourage anyone living with, or who knows someone living with, the condition to come along and join our group every Thursday, free of charge. It’s a chance to make friends and celebrate the power of connection, friendship, and community through the game we all love.”

Alex Hyde-Smith, Chief Marketing Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, added:

“This year’s Alzheimer’s Society International promises to be a historic night, showcasing so many different experiences of dementia and providing a special moment for our mascots and their families.

We know beating dementia will require the ultimate team effort – and football is the ultimate team game. Players need their teammates, coaches, and fans to support them, and likewise, people affected by dementia need a team of family, carers, and doctors. It will take a society to beat dementia and, as with any successful team, we all have a role to play.”