Dementia, often called 'the long goodbye', affects millions in the UK every year.

I know first-hand the devastating impact dementia can have on someone's quality of life after my grandma, Ruth, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (a type of dementia) in December 2010. 

Once diagnosed grandma was given the drug Aricept. Whilst we will never know for sure, we are convinced that this drug greatly helped slow down her mental decline.

However, sadly, the drug was never going to be able to completely stop the Alzheimer's from developing. Whilst she has done remarkably well, in the last couple of years grandma has experienced a dramatic cognitive decline and has needed a lot more care. I know that the work of Alzheimer's Society has been of great help to her, and to my grandad. I also know that they're not alone as Alzheimer's Society support hundreds of thousands every year through their Companion Calls, community projects, and campaigning.

The charity also invest £10 million a year into dementia research. This money is used to fund a variety of dementia research projects and initiatives across the UK to help improve care, understand causes and work towards a cure.

Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading dementia charity and are committed to supporting those affected by this terrible disease. Every three minutes someone is diagnosed with dementia in the UK however with your help Alzheimer's Society can ensure they don't have to go through it alone. I would really appreciate any support you can give with every penny you donate making sure Alzheimer's Society can be there for people affected by dementia.

Thank you,

Stephen