Our wee mum lost our dad when he was 50 years of age. She continued single handedly to raise her 6 children. 

She was always an avid reader, enjoyed lots of family holidays with her children and grandchildren. She always looked forward to catching up with her friends,  her brothers and sisters. 

Unfortunately, she developed macular degeneration in 2012 and is now completely blind 😥

In 2014, she was diagnosed with lewy body and vascular  dementia. She was cared for at home by her children for two years,  until the GP advised us that she needed 24 hour care and supervision.  This was a horrendous time for the family as we struggled to accept this.

With the support of health professionals such as my close pal Leigh Whitnall (Clinical Psychologist) Sharon West (CPN) and Fiona Kane from Alzheimer's Scotland, the family had a clearer understanding of this illness and found ways to cope with it.

It's been a hellish time for our poor mother, as she slowly deteriorates and we watch helplessly as she loses the quality of life she once had. All we can give her now, is our time and chat, and the care she once gave us.  We have now learned to laugh rather than cry when she informs us that "your dad is currently having a fling " or that shes "not received any dig money from us in yonks"

Ultimately, what she hasn't lost, is her great sense of humour and acerbic wit: and that is what keeps her and our family going.

Alzheimer's Scotland  provides a wide range of specialist services for people with dementia and their carers.

They offer personalised support services, community activities, information  and advice at every stage of the dementia journey.

I'm running the Stornoway  half marathon  to raise funds for Alzheimer's Scotland. I'm not a great runner and more of a hillwalker. Although some hillwalking  buddies will say I'm not a walker either especially  as I'm climbing smaller hills these days 😁

Any donation, large  or small would be gladly received as this is a charity which is very dear to my heart. Thank you Tx