My Dad, Bill Blackie, died through vascular dementia in 2013. Naively, I had no idea what this disease was when he was diagnosed in 2009. However, I soon came to realise the devastating effects dementia can have for the sufferer and their loved ones, and watched helplesssly as my Dad deteriorated. On his 80th birthday (February 2013) he no longer recognised me or his family. He just stared at us with a blank expression. That was a truly sad day. Two months later he passed away with me, my sister Debbie and brother Stephen by his side.

I struggled with my Dad's death and ended up with mild depression. I went through various forms of counselling and still take anti-depressants today. It has taken me a long time to replace the negative image of my Dad's 80th birthday. Running though enables me to focus on the many good times we shared together.

So please support me and the Alzheimer’s Society to transform the landscape of dementia forever.

Want to know how my £2,000 fundraising target will be spent...? Here's three examples.

1. Alzheimer's disease is caused by toxic proteins in the brain. To stop Alzheimer's we need to grow knowledge of how these proteins cause brain cells to die. £500 will pay for 200 microlites of a special chemical that is applied to brain tissue, allowing researchers to study how brain cells are affected by the disease. Without these resources, scientists can't carry out their work which is bringing us closer to a cure.

2. Talking Point is an online community where people can ask questions, share experiences and get practical tips on living with dementia. It costs around £500 to support over 4,000 visitors.

3. The National Dementia Helpline is there to help at what can often be a time of crisis for people living with dementia. It is open 7 days a week for anybody who needs it. £1,000 means the Helpline team can be there for over 85 people.