This year I will be running the London marathon to raise money for Alzheimer's Research UK. Through discussions with friends and colleagues it has been made clear that almost everyone has a link to this disease in one way or another. Similar tales of loved ones are shared, happy or sad, but what becomes obvious are the profound challenges dementia brings both to those living with the disease and their loved ones. Supporting my marathon challenge will help support Alzheimer's Research UK fund research into the causes and treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia, whilst supporting patients and their families coping with the challenges of living with the a cruel and debilitating disease.

On a personal note, I have chosen this charity with my Grandma Mary, in mind. She has always been, and continues to be, a huge light in my life and in that of my whole family. She is a true matriarch and a very proud and accomplished woman. Mary has been living with dementia for a number of years and rarely recognises her family now, the exception being Archie, her husband and the unequivocal love of her life. Watching this wonderful woman live with dementia has been challenging for the whole family. Despite her illness she has retained her spirit and remains kind, caring, generous and is often hilarious. She particularly loves visits from her great grandchildren.

Mary has a wonderful support system with Grandad Archie and my aunties, Karen and Joanne, visiting her very regularly, for which we are all incredibly grateful. She is also supported by an excellent team of carers at her nursing home who keep her safe, warm and waiting for the  next visit from “her husband”, as she reminded me regularly last time I visited.

My hope is that raising money for Alzheimer's Research UK will go some way to support people and families in similar circumstances. 

(Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.)