Alzheimer’s Society is transforming the landscape of dementia forever.Until the day we find a cure, we will create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.

I have decided to walk for my mother in law Marion Bennett who was an inspiration to me. 34 years ago she welcomed me into her family enabling me to have a mother (as mine had died when I was 8.) Throughout the years she treated me no different to her own children and I loved her dearly for it . 

It was sad 4 years ago, at the age of 85 years old when she was formally diagnosed with vascular dementia . We could see that my in laws were struggling and that they would move from Devon to Northumberland for us to all live together. Whilst this was a difficult decision it was necessary for them to have the support in order to cope . 

We coped with the situation until earlier this year when Mum went into care . I felt very guilty about it and felt I let her down however there was no other choice but to search for a care home to meet her needs . Thank goodness for Dementia’ Care, Brunswick Village, Wideopen  in Newcastle. I cannot thank them enough as they have extremely high standards and look after her as if she was family. They have quality services with a day centre and they do not have a high turn over of staff so it’s fairly consistent. 

We visit often as we can as I now care for my father in law who is frail but at 98 1/2 has a great determination which I admire in him. 

I want to do this walk to thank this very brave woman for who she is and the struggle she has had to endure since being diagnosed . Can people please donate money to this very worthy cause, so more research can be done to help those in the future. To Mum all I can say Thankyou from the bottom of my heart .