In 2019 I took my daughter (then 9), to the Body Worlds Exhibition in London. There we watched an excellent animation Retrogenese by Suus Hessling, which explained so well what dementia is, with the reality that there is no cure, or ability to reverse. That hit home hard for both of us.

My dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2018, and I am acutely aware of the impact it has on a family (especially my mum). My dad is famous for having a brilliant brain (16 O'levels and 7 A levels!), regular winner of Trivial Pursuit (without cheating!), an avid reader, and a font of knowledge. To be honest it seems like it is mostly still there, he just can't remember the words, which is obviously frustrating for him.

At the start of 2020 I started my running journey, on March 7th just before the first lockdown I ran my first 5km race, in October I ran a 10km, and then in January 2021, I did a virtual half marathon in a sub-2 hour time. So a marathon seems like the natural next step. I've opted for a charity place in the Brighton Marathon, because why not put myself through that and raise a little bit for charity, something that might make a positive difference to another family down the line.

Never feel that your actions are so small, you can't make a difference.

Alzheimer’s Society is transforming the landscape of dementia forever. Until the day we find a cure, we will create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.

You can find Retrogenese at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTDzNougjR8