My Dad, was diagnosed with frontal lobe dementia in 2007, he was 55. His personality, emotions, behavior, and speech are controlled in this area of the brain, and they have all deteriorated rapidly. I was only 17 and my brother 19, when we received his diagnosis.

I’m confronting what is often very difficult for me to talk about. I’m sharing my very private battle, about my darling Dad and his illness. Grief, guilt and love are inextricably intertwined, and so they will continue. 10 years on, and I’m just starting this process of letting go of my parent, while our loved one is still alive, it bears the same pain as conventional grief.

He was hard-working and passionate. An entertaining family man, an alpha male, captain of his sports teams: someone who stood up to be counted. Like everyone, he had flaws – but he loved us all very deeply. I’m doing my best to not let this disease rob me of the wonderful story and fond childhood memories that went before.

I’m raising money for Alzheimer's Society by attending London’s Memory Walk. Every pound you raise will change the lives of people affected by dementia – now and in the future. Please dig deep and help us walk for a world without dementia!

I’m doing it for my Dad, Duncan.

With love, Coby x