In September and October this year I will run 2 marathons, Brighton (12^th September) and Lisbon (17^th October) in support of Dementia NI. If I cannot travel to Lisbon in October I will run a virtual marathon in London.     

Read my story:

I have been aware of dementia from a very young age. My grandfather, John McAteer, was diagnosed in 1980 when I was 5 years old. My recollection of him was this quiet man just sitting in the corner not speaking much and being cared for by both my grandmother and mother. We would chat to him but we knew we wouldn’t get much back. He died 8 years later at the age of 68. Being a kid you think 68 is old, but now you realise he was still young and as I grew up I would hear stories of what a gentleman he was and respected amongst his peers. I wish I had got to know him more.

Currently my godfather, Frankie Stitt, and my aunt Colette (father’s side) are in care homes suffering from Dementia. Frankie got involved with Dementia NI soon after his diagnosis and so I would like to help raise much needed funds for them.  I hope you can help.

I am setting a target to raise £50 per mile that I will run over the 2 marathons. They are now only 5 weeks apart, having been delayed from October 2020 and April 2021.

Dementia NI is a local charity supporting people living with dementia. People with dementia taking action, having their voices heard and improving the lives of everyone who has dementia. The lives of people are dramatically changed by a dementia diagnosis. Our vision is to ensure everyone living with dementia in NI will receive an accurate and timely diagnosis, have access to appropriate services and will live well with the right support. We will continue to raise awareness, educate, train and challenge the stigma of dementia.