We are braving a Bungee Jump on April 14th 2018, and in doing so we would like to raise funds for Alzheimer's Society, in honour of Liv's Grandmothers who both sadly suffered from dementia and passed away in 2017 and Andy’s Grandma who is currently experiencing life with dementia.

What people don't realise, is that there are many different types of dementia, and that it's not a natural part of ageing which only affects older people. In fact, over 40,000 people under 65 in the UK have dementia. This is called early-onset or young-onset dementia. 

Rosemary suffered from the later stages of Alzheimer's disease. This disease is the most common cause of dementia, with more than 520,000 sufferers in the UK. It tends to start slowly and progress gradually, meaning that over time more parts of the brain are damaged and in turn more symptoms develop and worsen. Rosemary saw a significant transformation; from being a bubbly, larger than life character, who was always independent and outgoing, to a very fragile, agitated lady who experienced frequent hallucinations and who failed to recognise close family members. 

Josie on the other hand suffered from vascular dementia which is the second most common type of dementia, affecting around 150,000 people in the UK. A person's risk of developing this condition doubles approximately every five years over the age of 65. There are several types of vascular dementia, but is predominantly caused by reduced blood supply to the brain due to diseased blood vessels. Josie's symptoms developed suddenly; forgetting how to perform daily tasks, experiencing severe delirium, agitation, memory loss and weakened limbs. Nan was always a very well spoken and articulate lady, who took great pride in this; it was clear for all to see how frustrated she was becoming as her speech became less fluent.

Marian, Andy’s Grandma, is a fun-loving lady who is at her best when surrounded by friends and family who constantly laugh with her. She loves to sing and dance; music brings memories back for her to enjoy. Although her dementia is getting progressively worse, Marian’s determined, caring personality is still in great form.

Alzheimer's Society are the only UK charity investing in research into dementia care, cause, cure and prevention. Last year their income increased from £90.7 million to £97.9 million. They spent 12% more on their work, meeting the needs of people affected by dementia, inspiring change and advancing research. Over 100,000 people were directly helped via local Alzheimer's Society services. 

"With your continued support, we will make even greater progress towards our vision of a world without dementia" - Alzheimer's Society. 

We really appreciate you taking the time to read our story.

... Oh and wish us luck! Andy and Liv x