Dementia has deeply affected both of our families. Ryan’s grandparents both lived with dementia, and Eva’s two grandmothers also experienced the condition. Watching loved ones lose their memories, independence, and sense of self is heartbreaking, and it impacts entire families.

That’s why we’re taking on Three Summits for Alzheimer’s — climbing three Scottish hills in June to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s Society. Every step we take is for our grandparents, for families facing dementia today, and for those who may face it in the future.

My nan Elizebeth or “mama” as we call her, has Alzheimer’s ,and watching her change over time has been both heartbreaking and eye-opening. She is from Liverpool , and for 50+ years was a school teacher. She was always the centre of our family alongside our grandad- warm, funny, as well as fiercely Scouse (and proud of it). Now, dementia has slowly changed her into an unrecognisable person.

She is often very, very anxious and confused and often does not recognise me or my youngest sister lucia. There are moments when she looks at us with uncertainty and asks who we are and why we are there, as though we are strangers in our own home. It is painful and hurtful sometimes. She also often believes my dad, who is now 50 years old, is still a young schoolboy. She asks if he has done his homework or wonders why he isn’t home from school yet. It feels like she is living in a different time, one that feels very real to her. Almost like in her own little bubble.

One of the hardest parts has been her wandering. She frequently goes out late at night for various reasons like needing to go to church thinking it is midday, and becomes lost, which is frightening for all of us. We worry constantly about her safety, especially in the darker, colder hours.

As a paramedic, i frequently see the horrific effects dementia can have on lots of people as well as families. I am doing a charity swim in support of Dementia UK because I want to turn the sadness and extreme helplessness we sometimes feel into something positive. I want to raise awareness of how devastating dementia can be for families like ours, and to help fund the incredible support that families so desperately need. If sharing our story and pushing myself physically can make even a small difference, then it will mean so much and i would do it 100 times over

A close friend of mine is currently facing the difficult reality of her father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, and I wanted to show my support in a meaningful way. Running this half marathon and raising funds for Alzheimer’s research is my way of honouring both her strength and her father’s journey. Through her experience, I’ve learned a great deal about this illness and the profound impact it has not only on those living with it, but also on the families who support them every day.

My great aunt was diagnosed with Dementia back in Covid. And they think the trauma of Covid and her husband dying triggered it. She’s been in amazing care home the last year and unfortunately suddenly died on Valentine’s Day a couple of days ago. Even though she had severe dementia she still never lost her humour so I will be running the Manchester marathon for her!

Hi well I lost a relative not long ago and thought I’ve not seen many charity doing fundraising for Alzheimer’s so yeah why not and iam hoping to raise so good money the charity

My name is Andrea and I’m the proud son of a Geordie mom and Italian father!
Born and raised in Italy, never lost connection with my British roots.
Sadly Alzheimer runs in my family, I have lost my Grandma a few years back and my Auntie has been placed in a care home last week.
I’ll be flying over from Italy specifically to run as a tribute to two wonderful women. Haway the lads!