On Friday 2nd of September myself, Kerensa, Angela, Carmen and Tilly will be walking the Yorkshire 3 Peaks in aid of Dementia UK, specifically to support the Admiral Nursing services.

Dementia is a debilitating disease that strikes at the very core of a family.  Learning to live and support loved ones, friends and colleagues suffering is more than just a challenging experience. The advice and counsel of the Admiral Nurses is invaluable for anybody who is living with dementia as an aspect of their lives, whether that be their own or that of a family member. 

My mum went from being an independent, intelligent and highly social individual to being wrought with pain, confusion and frustration. There were lighter moments: a present wrapped in plasters and a newfound adoration for white sports socks, and there were the darker times; trying to explain why she was no longer fit to drive, or trying to console her as she beat her head in desperation. 

Starting a dementia journey can feel like entering a vacuum, it can be an isolating, overwhelming and desolate experience - only promising to get darker and darker but the Admiral Nurses can offer rays of light. We shared stories, cakes, coffees and tears.  Not only are they a constant for the person whose life is slowly being torn apart by the disease but for their entire support system.  We would like to say a heartfelt Thank You for the support of the Doncaster branch of Admiral Nurses, funded by Dementia UK. Services such as the Admiral nurses can help provide support to families, offering them a much needed hand in their their times of need.

When my mum finally found peace I needed to find a way to cope with my grief and newly found spare time. I joined a rambling club locally where I found a new community and met the inspirational ladies I'm doing this challenge with. We all know and have experienced the effects of dementia and this is our way of trying to give back - so that fewer people have to go through this alone. 

Kerensa, who is walking with me, says that as well as working with people with dementia for many years & seeing the effect it has on families, has also experienced it firsthand with both her Nan & Mum being diagnosed. Both needed extensive 24 hour support as the illness took hold, and therefore supporting Dementia UK is very close to her heart. 

All of us doing this challenge understand the toll dementia can take on a family. It is hard and it is heartbreaking but learning how best to live and love someone suffering is perhaps the most vital tool Admiral Nurses can give.

We really appreciate your support and thank you for reading our story.