'Why I Support Alzheimer's Society' by our supporter Ann Bruce-Low

'I am writing having just completed the Great South Run on 28 October this year in Portsmouth. I also completed the Great Scottish 10K in Glasgow on 2 September this year.  The latter was more challenging as it had hills in it, especially at the start!

This has been the fifth time I have done the Great South, a long, flat race covering ten miles, but about the 7th or 8th time I have done the Great Scottish 10K.  Both races I take a bucket round with me and in Glasgow I received £38, whereas I had the astonishing amount of £138 in my bucket from the Great South.

My mother had Alzheimer's and I do it in her memory as I wasn't able to take full responsibility for her; she lived in Glasgow and I was working in Devon. I went to see her as often as I could, but my brother had the full heavy work and responsibility of caring for her.

In gathering this money I send half for research in the hope that one day, if not a cure, then at least there will be something to stop this dreadful illness progressing. The other half is donated to services as I support my local music centre in Hythe where all those with Alzheimer's and their carers can listen and join in with the music. This is where I took the cheque, and I found it a very moving experience.

I have also been extremely moved by the massive generosity of the general public and my many relatives, friends and neighbours in their sponsorship and filling my buckets. It is gratefully received and appreciated as in this day and age money is extremely scarce and also there are so many excellent causes to give to. My extreme thanks to all those that have given so generously, not only this year, but also previously.

Thanks must also be given to all those who have supported me and enabled me to be fit enough to do these runs. Peter my husband for tolerating the disruption at home, Stewart our son for encouraging me with my fitness and training and taking me to Portsmouth and back, Emmy his girlfriend for her support and Hardley Runners for tolerating me at their training sessions!'

We'd like to say a huge thanks to Ann for her continuing dedication and support.

If you'd like to run for Alzheimer's Society then please contact our Events team. If you'd like to show your support by fundraising in other ways check out your local area pages for upcoming events, ideas and contact information for your dedicated Community Fundraiser.