In Nov 2021, my husband Nick, aged 55 yrs, my childhood sweetheart, my soul-mate, proud father of two, Reece and Charlotte, was given the devastating news of a diagnosis of Young On-Set Alzheimer's Dementia.

This life-changing condition, that has invaded our life and forever changed our relationship, is a constant trespasser in our home challenging every aspect of our life.

Nick has a FdSc in Building Services Engineering which he studied for when our children were young, whilst working his job as an electrical engineer - he can no longer work; his independence has been surrendered - he can no longer drive; his many interests and hobbies are lost as all memory of how to participate, compete and coordinate forgotten.

He was a Beaver Scout Leader fully committed and immersed in this voluntary role for our local community for 15yrs, but found things increasingly difficult as Alzheimer's crept into his being, contributing to him stepping down.

Nick has been living with Alzheimer's for 3yrs+, his life has changed dramatically, our life has changed dramatically. At times, he feels very isolated, there are many frustrations that Nick is challenged with each and every day, and as a family we are all having to navigate a different way of looking at life through Nick's struggles. His one remaining constant, that validates his normality and gives him routine and structure, is his cherished daily walk with our two faithful labradors, they keep him going! 🐾🐾

Nick will continue to try and he will continue to battle his failing memory; taking strength from the SUPPORT and the LOVE of his family and friends.

I have chosen to do this Suffolk Trek for Alzheimer's Society whilst Nick can still make the decision to do so - we both want to do something together with our family that is both memorable, positive and ultimately beneficial to others.

Thank you for reading our story and for your much needed support! XXxx

Alzheimer’s Society are working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives. They do this by giving help to those living with dementia today and by providing hope for the future by campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be and funding ground-breaking research.

Thank you for choosing to trek for Alzheimer's Society, together we can be help and hope to everyone affected by dementia.