Like many families we have been affected by dementia. My dad, Rod Walker, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's several years ago. He was always a very active, capable man, with a great sense of humour and the enviable ability to make friends everywhere he went. To see this man slowly fading away before us has been extremely upsetting and I felt compelled to do something that could benefit him whilst he was still able to enjoy it.

That is why, first and foremost, I wanted to raise awareness of Romsey Dementia Action Group (ROMDAG), who support anyone living with dementia in the local community, including their families. They work hard to raise awareness of dementia and support local businesses and services to become dementia friendly. They have also created and promote many activity groups for people with dementia across the local area (exercise classes, memory walks, arts & crafts workshops etc).

My Mum suggested ROMDAG, as any money raised would directly benefit my Dad and other local families affected by dementia. Dad is now 73 yrs old and has - along with my Mum - been living with the slowly worsening effects of dementia for over 10 years. Thankfully they have a fantastic network of friends, who have supported them over the years, both socially & practically. However, not everyone can rely on such support and this is why ROMDAG is such an essential resource to the community.

To help raise money for ROMDAG & Alzheimer’s Research UK, myself and some close friends will be taking on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge on the 30th June 2018. A 24 mile hike, incorporating the three highest peaks in Yorkshire, to be completed within 12 hours. This should be a challenging event for us all and something that my Dad would have loved to do himself, so hopefully the orienteering skills he taught us all those years ago as our Cub Scout leader haven’t completely deserted us!

Any donation would be gratefully received, not just by us, but by the charities & the families they support