My Nan wasn't 'just' my grandparent, she was my inspiration.  On the 3rd October 2014, at the age of 91, Nan grew her wings and left us.  Although life without her feels unbearable, I want to make her proud - just one last time.  The best way to do that is to do something positive, in her memory. 

On the 26 April 2015, I will be running the London Marathon with my cousin, Kelly Ward.  We do not underestimate the challenge ahead of us, but we'll do it - for Nan.

Nan (fondly known as, 'Nannie Ethel'), was one in a million.  She lived each day with enthusiasm.  She was still singing until only a few days before she passed away!  She never complained, she loved life, and she loved her family. 

Nan was very fortunate because although she had chronic illness, she was able (mostly due to sheer determination!) to live an independent life.  She had a loving family around her to give her whatever care and support she needed.  Sadly, this is not the same for lots of older people. Kelly and I have seen, first hand, while visiting Nan in hospital, that so many older people have no one. 

Many will be surprised to hear that a million older people in the UK haven't spoken to anyone in over a month; and an estimated 5 million people consider their TV to be their main form of companionship.  If that isn't bad enough, every year 3.5 million older people in the UK say they are dreading the cold weather in winter.  Over half a million older people spend Christmas Day alone!

Age UK know how devastating loneliness can be for older people. From your donations, Age UK can help to carry on funding and supporting vital services designed to tackle and prevent loneliness, isolation and help older people feel warm and well. These services include, for example:

• Distributing essential items like clothes, heaters and electric blankets to keep older people warm
• Handy-people provide energy services, like fitting draft excluders and radiator foils, as well as help with practical tasks around the home
• Shopping support so those with mobility issues can get what they need
• Christmas parties and provide befriending services to help fight loneliness
• Social activities, Lunch Clubs and Day trips

£10 could buy a 'Staying Warm' pack containing two items of warm clothing, a selection of warming food and drinks, a thermometer and important information on staying warm.

£25 could cover the cost of a trip to a day centre where an older person can enjoy an activity and a warm meal

£100 could pay for a two-hour home visit to check that an older person is safe and well AND could buy a double-over blanket to keep an older person warm at night

Any donation, no matter how small, would be appreciated.   Every penny counts.  Let's make sure that the older generation know they matter. 

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