I work for Alzheimer Scotland, and it means that I hear from families every day how much they rely on the support provided by the organisation.

From dementia advisors who are there even from before diagnosis through to end of life and beyond for those left behind, our 24hr freephone helpline, to the wonderful range of therapeutic activities that are available for people to take part in whether that's in person, or virtually, none of it would be possible without the support of our communities.

As Covid has taken hold  people living with dementia and their carers have seen their routines changed, normality stripped away and life changed overnight.  As some of us are finding restrictions easing allowing us to get back to some kind of routine, we're seeing the damage that has been done is irreversible.  People have lost cognitive function which can't be regained, and they will never be able to return to the lifestyle they had before.  Carers are at breaking point and families are making hard decisions about how to go on.

It makes the work we do at Alzheimer Scotland even more crucial, but as times are hard for everyone charities are also feeling the pinch, so I hope that in getting out there and freezing my a**e off over the winter I can raise a bit of cash to help support some more families.

The Polar Bear Challenge has different levels, and I've signed up to Arctic, which means swimming 250 metres twice a month and complete 3000 metres total distance each month, from November to March. 

The Challenge is run under the same clothing rules as the Channel Swimming Association and the International Ice Swimming Association which means you can only wear one swimsuit with no thermal properties, a silicone or latex swimhat ( no bubble or fancy hats ) and noseclips and earplugs as required. Swimwear must not extend beyond the shoulders or beyond the knees.

Neoprene or any heat retaining fabric is not allowed under any circumstances - brrrrr!