Nanny's Story:

In April 2018 my Nan was diagnosed with mixed type dementia. This time last year she managed her home and finances independently and had an active social life. In the past 12 months, she has gradually been affected by dementia to the point that she was unable to look after herself and has had to move into a care home. She gets frustrated living there, as she can't remember why she can't be at home. Even though she chose the care home and knew that she was going to live there, she now can't remember doing so; she can only remember what her life was like a couple of years ago, before she developed dementia. And that's the cruellest thing - that she can't process what is happening to her. And that she is ashamed - she doesn't want people to know that she has "gone daft", so tries to cover up how she is feeling. And she's scared. Unfortunately, there isn't any medication that is suitable for her, so we know that the dementia will continue to progress and she will continue to deteriorate. The whole family feels the effect when a relative has dementia - at the moment, my Nan still remembers her grandchildren and great-grandchilden, but I know there will come a point when she won't be able to. Her sister also has dementia, but has already deteriorated much further.

Since she has moved into the wonderful care home that she resides in I've met other people living with dementia and their families. And I've realised what dementia looks like for so many people. And ever case is heart-breaking. As relatives and carers, we do what we can to make the lives of our loved ones enjoyable and to treasure the precious time that we have with them. 

Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. Someone develops it every three minutes and there’s currently no cure. The chances are that at some point, you or your loved ones will be diagnosed with dementia. 

- dementia is not a consequence of old age; it is caused by diseases of the brain

- 850,000 people in the UK currently have dementia- that will be 2.1 million by 2051

- 1in 6 people over the age of 80 have dementia

- 1 in 3 people born in the UK this year will develop dementia 

- 40,000 people under 65 have dementia 

- Two thirds of the cost of dementia is paid by people with dementia and their families

In the April 2019 I plan to run the Brighton Marathon in aid of the Alzheimer's Society, who work to support the needs of people affected by all types of dementia, as well as funding research and campaigning for change. Until dementia is cured, they aim to create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, so that they are able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.

Please give generously to this important cause, if you are able. And additionally you'll be helping motivate me to complete this ridiculous challenge!