In April 2026, I will be taking on the huge challenge of running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for a special cause.

In 2019 my Dad was diagnosed with Alzheimers and Vascular dementia at the age of 67, so I am running this for him and to raise funds for the Alzheimers Society.

It has been really hard seeing my Dad decline from being very independent and someone who would throw his hand at all sorts of DIY to someone who struggles with simple life tasks. Dad was always very active on his bike or walking and while he still gets about he can be unsteady now

Dad used to live on his own so my sister and I, plus our families supported Dad at his home for a few years, but in August 2023 we decided we could no longer support him with what he needed, but it was also for his safety that we made the decision.

Looking after a loved was tough under these circumstances

Dad has been in the care home in Thatcham now for 2 years and is very settled, we visit him regularly and while I don't believe he knows ours names anymore, he certainly still recognises our faces

It has been hard for us all, but especially for the grandchildren seeing the decline in their Grandad, but they still want to go and see him to cheer him up :)

It is such a cruel disease :(

UPDATE

Sadly Dad passed away on 13th December in Reading Royal Berks Hospital, we were with him as he passed peacefully and pain free and can now rest in peace

so onto the job that needs doing!

A half marathon is officially 21.0975 kilometre, but is commonly rounded to 21.1 kilometres. I am looking to complete this within 1hr 55mins! (depending on winter training, this may go up or down!)

Thank you so much in advance for donating whatever you can, it really will make a massive difference.