The past seven months have been extremely difficult for everyone but especially those with Dementia because of their mental state they won't be able to understand the situation at hand, which we as a family know all too well. 

The reason I am running 50 miles in October for Alzheimer's Society is not just to raise as much money as possible for this amazing charity who are continuing to support families and individuals, it's because we have received first hand the support. 

Just over four years ago my lovely Grandad was diagnosed with Dementia & Parkinson's which tore my family apart. For me my Grandad was my bestfriend, I grew up only really having one set of Grandparents in my life and for sure they made up for it. I have such fond memories of spending time with my Grandad whether that is going to Brighton Beach for the day or being in the car with the roof down of his Vauxhall Astra Convertible speeding up and down hilly roads (when really we was probably only going 30mph!). 

Throughout my life my Grandad has been there for me through every situation, whether this is through school when I felt lonely and didn't have many friends, through my GCSE's & A Levels when I just wanted to give up, or when I got a new job. He was there! 

When my Grandad got diagnosed our emotions went into a total spin from anger to upset to confusion, why him? Why us? 

His symptoms was deteriorating at a consistent but stable rate until Coronavirus Lockdown happened in March. As I'm sure many can relate, individual's suffering with Dementia significantly suffered more than any of us. Their worlds went into a spin and confusion really sunk in. Why we was standing on the drive way and not able to come inside, was one question that my Grandad frequently asked.

For my Grandad's 70th Birthday we had to stand on the driveway and sing Happy Birthday - this not only destroyed us but it destroyed him with his confusion. Lockdown proceeded further and his condition grew progressively worse, eventually leading to us saying goodbye on 6th June. 

So as I'm sure you have read I am doing this challenge in lovely memory of my beautiful Grandad. 

Grandad, we miss you every single day & a day doesn't go by that we all don't think of you. We know you are watching us and with us every step of the way. We will make you proud every day and continue the legacy you left behind.

I love you 

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