My Dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in August 2016, after a few years of showing early signs of dementia. Although, the deterioration has been gradual through the years, in October 2022, he was admitted into full-time care. This was a long time coming and would not have been possible at such a late stage without my Mum being his full-time carer. 

We tend to think about the person suffering the illness, however, the affect on the carers is relentless and for me, raising the awareness of this is just as important. My Grandma (Dads side) and Grandad (Mums side) suffered with dementia and during the last few years both of my Dads' brothers have also been admitted into full time care for dementia related illnesses.

Although marathon running has never been an ambition of mine, especially following two knee operations, I would like to take the opportunity to challenge myself and raise a small amount of money and more importantly raise awareness for this terrible disease. Sadly, my Dad won't be aware of me participating this event, but after the years of support by him for various sporting activities, I'm sure he would be proud.

Alzheimer’s Society are working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives. They do this by giving help to those living with dementia today and by providing hope for the future by campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be and funding ground-breaking research. Thank you for supporting the Alzheimer's Society, together we can be help and hope to everyone affected by dementia.