Dementia & Alzheimer’s disease are two conditions that have greatly affected my family over the last few years.

Just over two years ago my Dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease which devastated us all. As a fit & healthy man, it didn’t seem possible that this could happen but it has.

I feel so blessed that my Dad is still with us and we continue to fill his life with happiness and love. However, the decline in his ability to remember, complete every day tasks and remain independent remains is very hard to see.

My Dad is our hero… His achievements in his life are beyond words.

From moving to Coventry City at 15 years old, representing the Republic of Ireland (Still the record holder to this day) and moving onto Tottenham Hotspur followed by spells at Vancouver Whitecaps, Leicester, Brentford, Peterborough. Dad is still admired by so many in the game, which I love to hear.

I'm running the Dublin Marathon for Dementia UK to raise awareness of this cruel disease that harms so many and to fundraise money to help families receive the support they need.

Finally, I am running this for my Dad. So I can run the streets he used to run and create another memory together with him as he waits at the finish line for me.

If you are able to make a small donation it would be much appreciated, however small it all will make a difference.

Thank you ❤️

Dementia UK is the specialist dementia nurse charity. Our nurses, called Admiral Nurses, provide life-changing care to families affected by all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. They help people with dementia stay independent for longer, and support the people caring for them so they have the strength to cope with the bad days, and the energy to enjoy the good days. They have the time to listen and the knowledge to solve problems, helping families take back control when they are struggling.