The last 12 months have been an emotional rollercoaster. Earlier this summer, my mum was diagnosed with both Alzheimer’s and Vascular Dementia. Watching her journey over this past year has been incredibly tough — seeing the woman who was once a strong-minded, supportive mother slowly change into someone who now needs constant care and reassurance to navigate her days has been heart-breaking.

So, my partner and I have decided to channel our energy and emotions into something positive — a multi-stage walking challenge over the next 12 months!

We’ll be taking on a series of challenging walks that will culminate in an extraordinary final trek across the Sahara Desert in October 2026. Alongside Berber guides and camels, we’ll face scorching days, freezing nights, and endless miles of shifting sand — all to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society, supporting people affected by dementia, the UK’s biggest killer. The money we raise will help fund vital research into better care, diagnosis, quality of life, and ultimately, a cure.

This cause couldn’t be more personal. Watching my mum’s health decline because of this cruel disease has been heartbreaking. I’ve also seen a dear friend deteriorate even faster from the same illness and through conversations with friends and family, I’ve realised just how many of us have loved ones who are living with — or have lost their lives to — dementia. It affects so many, yet touches each family in profoundly personal ways.

Over the next year, we will WALK — not every day or every week, but with purpose and determination. Some walks will be easy, others far more demanding. We’ll trek around Jersey, the Isle of Wight, and many other beautiful routes across the UK, building awareness step by step. Our final, most ambitious challenge will be the Sahara Desert Trek, a true test of endurance, resilience, and heart.

Every walk, every step, every blister, and every grain of sand will be worth it — because every penny raised brings us closer to hope, care, and a cure for families living with dementia.

I would be so grateful for your support. Every donation — no matter how big or small — will help fund essential research and life-changing services for those affected.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart 💜