Monica, my mum, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease 3 years ago. The photo above was taken in 2019, in the years since then, mum has become increasingly confused and has now lost her independence. The cruel thing about dementia is how fast things change, in 2016 mum did an MA in creative writing and was awarded a distinction. By now, she can just about remember my name, but doesn’t know I’m her daughter. Fortunately, she is happy in her own world.

I chose to support this charity because Dementia UK fund Admiral nurses, who have been an incredible support to my parents over the last couple of years and I hope other families will be able to benefit from their good work.

‘Admiral Nurses help people living with dementia stay independent for longer – and support the people caring for them so that they will have the strength to cope with the bad days, and the energy to enjoy the good days.’

My mum was an enthusiastic runner, she ran 20 marathons over the years, 10 of them with my dad, Robin. It was mum’s 70th birthday in January this year, I’m doing the marathon in celebration of the many miles she ran. I’d really appreciate any donations for this wonderful charity in her honour. 

Many thanks in advance and much love

Mari xx