Trekking for Alzheimer’s Society is a great way to support the cause while challenging yourself

My mum has mixed dementia and Dad has Parkinson’s disease dementia, and Mum’s sister had dementia too. 

I was sat on annual leave in the spring and thought I’d like to challenge myself, and Alzheimer’s Society is the perfect charity to support. 

I’ve used the Society’s resources online a lot. I always want to know if there are more measures I can put in place to help, and I used it recently on the question of whether to tell Mum that her sister had died. Alzheimer’s Society is my go-to for information. 

Doing a trek with people in the same situation was a big motivator. I was in the company of almost strangers, but with a shared experience. And I’ve always wanted to trek up Snowdon!

Stunning 

I was surprised at how many people were doing it. We arrived at Llanberis the day before and it was stunning, one of the best places I’ve ever been. 

At my accommodation, I heard a lady on the phone who was doing the trek, so immediately I was talking to others. By the end of the trek, you’ve got these new friends. 

We set off in waves due to the pandemic, to avoid too many people in a group, so the mountain was covered in Alzheimer’s Society T-shirts!

We were led by an experienced trekker, and there were steep bits but then unreal scenery – it was absolutely brilliant. 

There was a really good atmosphere and a sense of camaraderie.

After the year we’d had, having the opportunity to be out and about anywhere, but especially on the side of a mountain, was just incredible. 

I raised £940 (I was expecting £300!) and I’d 100% encourage others to do a trek. It helps to go and do something that actually feels like it’s helping.