David & Anna are taking the fight against dementia to the highest point in Britain as part of a fundraising effort for Alzheimer's Society.
As you may know my grandmother died 11 days before Christmas 2009. She was 93. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease 5 years ago. However we had been aware that this devastating condition was starting about 3 years or so before it was confirmed. Anna's nanna has also been diagnosed with Alzheimers, currently relying on those close to her for support. I asked my mum to put into words the effects Alzheimer's has had on our family, this is what she wrote ~"Mum had always had good health. She was a very active and busy lady. Very independent and looked much younger than her actual years.She would never admit to feeling ill or having memory problems. She never knew the diagnosis. The first few years were difficult. Her normally friendly and polite personality began to change, especially if she felt threatened by the necessary questioning she had to go through to establish her capability for living independently. She could be very impolite.
However, as the disease progressed she returned to the nice person she had previously been. I was very thankful. Mum had been widowed 22 years when she and I decided she should move near to my husband and I, an hours drive away. That was 18 years ago.It was a wise and successful decision. She took on a new lease of life, making lots of new friends in the village and getting involved with the parish church we both attended regularly. Mum was well liked and very popular. All of which helped when her health deteriorated. 3 years ago she moved in with my husband and I permanently.
Gradually I needed more support emotionally to enable me to keep mum at home with me for as long as possible. With the help of many people I did.
The staff at our local Alzheimer's society were always there for me. Filling out the necessary form which entitled me to carer's allowance which I might not have bothered with. Ringing me at regular intervals for a chat. It was always a long chat.They were very kind, very understanding, very patient. I knew I could always ring them if needed. There was a Friday group for carers such as I and mum to go along and chat over tea and coffee and share experiences. Everyone has a different story and yet the same story
Mum was a good patient. She never complained, never asked for anything. She trusted me completely and was very happy and content all the time she lived with us.
She was a loving and remarkable mother. It was a pleasure and a privilege to care for her. I will miss her always."
David & Anna hope to raise over £1000 by taking part in the Ben Nevis challenge 17-19 September 2010. They will climb the mountain to raise money for the 700,000 people in the UK who have a form of dementia.
