This year I turn 30 and I am challenging myself to become better, and also to have a lot of fun. I'm becoming more aware of the precious time that we have. We should all be making the most of life, but it is sometimes all too easy to take the easy option and do not a lot because we're always so busy. Or lazy.

Living further away, I don't get to see my family as much as I used to. Now I'm getting to the purpose of my fundraising. Two of my relatives have different forms of dementia, my great aunt was diagnosed recently with Alzheimer's and my grandmother has been diagnosed with psychosis. Neither of these conditions are easy to comprehend or pleasant to see loved ones suffer with.

Seeing my family infrequently gives me a different perspective to those who see them more often. I see the struggles those who spend more time with them, the frustrations and the sorrow that these illnesses cause is devastating for everyone.

Possibly worst is the heartbreaking decline of my Nan and Great Aunt. Seeing their frustration and confusion because of the disease is something that no one should go through. It is vitally important for much needed funds can be raised to support as many people as possible who are suffering.

I am lucky, I can still make memories with my relatives. They, perhaps, are not so lucky.

I need to do more, and not just in the way of exercise. Please help me to raise £1000  as I walk 1000 miles for the Alzheimer's Society. Your money will go to an amazing cause and will certainly make my aching joints worthwhile!

Also, please join me. I shall be walking the national Three Peaks with some amazing colleagues, so I shall be walking near and far in order to achieve my target before the end of August.

Thank you.