I lost both parents to dementia. My Mum suffered for about 10 years, steadily retreating from herself and the world over the course of a decade. My Dad’s illness was shorter, but no less painful for him, knowing as he did the inevitable course the disease would take.

Medical innovation and lifestyle changes mean that many of
us will live longer than previous generations. But dementia is on the rise and is now the leading cause of death in the UK and Ireland. A longer life blighted by dementia is far from a blessing.

We need to find more effective treatments for dementia, and a cure. 

I am raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society by walking the breadth of Ireland, the beloved country of my parents. I had planned the walk for August 2020, but Covid got in the way. The coast is now finally clear, and I'll be undertaking the challenge in a few weeks time.  I’ll be walking between 15-20 miles a day, from east to west coast...getting off the ferry at Rosslare on 16th May and paddling in the sea at Doolin on 28th May....all being well!  In honour of my parents I’ll be walking via both of their birthplaces on route: Kilkenny (Mum) and Doon (Dad). 

I'd already received some very kind donations, and I want to thank again those who donated money, and to reassure you that your donations have already been safely transferred to the charity. 

If any one else is able to make a donation, however small, that would be wonderful. I'm funding the trip myself, and every penny you donate will go directly to the charity.

I've just bought a good pair of walking boots, and the training starts today.... 

Many thanks

Mick Hartnett, 

22nd March 2022