I'm running for my mum, who has now lost her life due to vascular dementia and Alzheimer's. She's gone far quicker than we hoped, so now I run next year's GNR without her around.... 😔

I am running for my mum who has advanced Alzheimer’s, for her sister that passed away in April of the cruel disease and her brother who is currently also in an advanced stage. The most heartbreaking disease 💔

My grandma passed away peacefully from Alzheimer’s last November. We shared a special bond. She inspired and taught me one of my first passions, baking. Helped me bake and decorate birthday cakes. We shared new years eves together watching Mrs Browns boys for many years and those memories unfortunately got taken from her. However, I’ll be running this marathon in her memory whilst wearing a ring with her birthday engraved to show her what the person who she helped nurture is capable of

Dementia has touched my family more than once, and its impact has been heartbreaking.

I lost my grandmother to dementia, watching the illness gradually take away the woman I knew and loved. The memories, conversations and moments we shared became harder for her to hold on to, and it was incredibly difficult to witness.

Today, a close family member is living with dementia, and our family is facing that journey again. Seeing someone you care about struggle with memory loss and confusion reminds you how devastating this disease can be, not only for the individual but for everyone around them.

Their experience, along with the memory of my grandmother, has inspired me to take action. After several years away from running, I have decided to return to marathon training to raise money for Alzheimer's Society.

Every mile I run is for my grandmother, for my family member living with dementia today, and for the millions of people and families affected by this disease across the UK.

Alzheimer's Society provides vital support, funds life-changing research and campaigns for a better future for those affected by dementia. By sharing my story and fundraising, I hope to play a small part in helping create a world where no family has to experience the heartbreak that dementia brings.

Together, we can help change the future of dementia. ❤️

My brother and I had an amazing childhood filled with love and happiness. Sadly, Alzheimer’s changed our family’s lives forever. Our mum was diagnosed first, followed some years later by our dad.

Dad’s condition deteriorated rapidly. We lost him two years ago, while Mum continues to live with this cruel disease. Although she still smiles when she sees us, she can no longer remember our names.

I’m taking on a 3-mile open water swim and a five-day trek across the Sahara to raise vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society and help support other families affected by this devastating disease.

During my swim, I carried a photograph of Mum and Dad in my tow float. That same photograph will accompany me across the Sahara, keeping them close to me every step of the way.

These challenges are my way of honouring the two people who gave us such a wonderful childhood, keeping their memories alive and helping make a difference to families facing the heartbreak of Alzheimer’s.
For Mum and Dad, and for every family living with this cruel disease.