I’m stepping into the ring for something that means a lot more than just boxing.

I’ve signed up for a charity boxing event Punch for Purpose to raise money for Alzheimers and dementia condition that’s affected my life in a very real way.

My nan has recently been diagnosed with the early stages of dementia, and it’s been tough seeing someone so important to me start to change. The small things most of us don’t think twice about—memories, conversations, everyday moments—are becoming harder for her, and that’s not easy to watch.

This isn’t the first time dementia has hit close to home either. I’ve lost family members to this illness, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact it has, not just on the person but on everyone around them. On top of that, a close friend’s dad has been battling dementia for a long time, and seeing what their family has gone through really brings home how serious and heartbreaking it is.

That’s why I wanted to do something that pushes me out of my comfort zone and actually makes a difference. Training for this fight isn’t easy, but it’s nothing compared to what people living with dementia and their families go through every single day.

I’m raising money to help support vital research, improve care, and hopefully one day find a cure so fewer families have to go through this.

Any donation, big or small, would mean a lot not just to me, but to everyone affected by Alzheimer’s & Dementia.

Thank you for your support.