Alzheimer's is such a cruel disease as it leaves the individual dependent, confused, and therefore vulnerable. "Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disorder in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive decline. A neurodegenerative type of dementia, the disease starts mild and gets progressively worse". Alzheimer's is the cause of over 60% of dementia cases.

Many think that Alzheimer's only affects memory, but it affects so much more. Gradually, problems with language, mood swings, hallucinations, behaviour and irrationality begin to occur. This means the individual is completely dependent, often anti-social, and almost child-like. It leaves the individual as a shadow of their past self.

Edward Hann, who is a beloved Father, Grandfather, Son, Brother and Friend, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease roughly 4 years ago, aged 73. It came as a huge shock to the family when he was diagnosed as, to everyone who knows him, he was the most intelligent, wise and sociable human being. He flew on Concorde 3 times, has probably visited 3/4 of the world, set up his own business one named Leach Relays and worked in the Aviation business until retirement, all whilst being a father of 3, grandfather of 8 and carer of his terminally ill wife, Georgina. To say he has had a full life would be an understatement. He told the most amazing stories and had such a full and enjoyable life. This is perhaps why it has been so heartbreaking watching this amazing, life-loving, busy and independent man become entirely dependent (on his amazing wife and carer, Angela), nervous, shy, and confused. No longer do we hear the stories of the people he met, the planes he had been on, the things he had seen and done. In his place, is a new man who doesn't talk much, can't look you in the eye, and struggles to remember your name. It is incredibly hard loving someone with Alzheimer's, however, Edward Hann is still Edward Hann. He is still wonderful, loving, caring and funny. And he is still happy. 

They say, as it progresses, Alzheimer's is harder for the family and friends than it is for the individual with the disease; and I have to agree. Thank God. Thank God he can't remember what he's forgotten, thank God he doesn't get sad that he can't learn new things, thank God he doesn't get frustrated that he can't do what he used to. But oh God, I wish it wasn't as hard to watch him change. 

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Around 225,000 people develop dementia every year – that’s the equivalent to one person every three minutes. This September and October Memory Walks will be taking place across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to raise money for a world without dementia. Arm in arm, step by step and pound by pound, we will get there. Once you donate, Just Giving will send your money directly to the Alzheimer's Society. So it’s the most efficient way to raise money – saving time and cutting costs for the charity. Please dig deep and help us walk for a world without dementia.