Alzheimer’s came into my life in 2016 when my dad was officially
diagnosed – the Doctor said it probably had started earlier and we have decided his life began to change around 2005.   

My dad lives in Texas, USA where I am originally from so
this diagnosis means getting back home from England to visit is even more important now. Alzheimer’s is not just a disease for the individual but a disease that hugely effects the whole family.

My dad is living in a really nice care home where I know he
is getting excellent care, and I talk to him via Facetime several times a week.  Sometimes I recognize my dad and other times he is almost like a stranger.  My mother’s life has changed drastically and
with the support of friends and family she is doing well, but I know she is sad but selflessly supports my father.

The main reason I wanted to raise money for Alzheimer’s
Society is because I want to do something to help as I feel helpless and guilty being so far from my dad.  I am so thankful to everyone
that helps my father and mother back home and I want to offer my help in some way.

My friend and colleague Amy and I pledged to support the Alzheimer’s
Society by taking part in a 10K run, then we discovered that Alzheimer’s Societywas doing a 26 mile Trek from Salisbury to Stonehenge, so we decided to up our game and raise as much as we can this year for the Alzheimer’s Society.    We did a practise 10k run in February, and I now run about 3 times a week.  We are currently training for our 26-mile walk
on 12^th September – Followed by our 10K in Bridport later in the
month.

I am so pleased and grateful that my friends and colleagues
have come together in “The Trotting Teachers” to raise as much money as possible and I would be very gratified if you would sponsor us any amount you can for this Trek and help with supporting families living with this terrible disease.

Lara