I’m running the 2026 London Landmarks Half Marathon for Dementia UK, in honour of my wonderful Nan.

Dementia is something no one prepares you for. Watching someone you love slowly slip away, piece by piece, is heartbreaking. My Nan has always been the most caring, funny, strong woman—and even as the illness has progressed, that spark still shines through in the most beautiful moments.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m not a runner. I get out of breath just walking up the stairs—so the idea of doing a half marathon would probably make Nan laugh and say, “Why the hell is she running that for me?” But I know that if she could, she’d be right there cheering me on, probably with a bag of sweets in one hand and clapping along with the other.

As her dementia has progressed, one of the things that still brings her joy is music—especially ABBA. “Thank You for the Music” always gets a smile from her, and over the next year of training, I’m hoping music will help carry me through too.

Over this year of training, I’ll not only be trying to learn how to run without collapsing (wish me luck!) but also trying to raise as much awareness as possible about dementia. Because the more we talk about it, the more support we can give to the families and loved ones going through it.

Every mile I run is for Nan. For every family facing this cruel disease. And for the hope that one day, no one has to lose someone they love in this way.

If you can support me—whether it’s with a donation, a song recommendation, or just a kind word—it would mean the world.

Thank you, truly.

Love, Lucy xx