Every three minutes, someone in the UK develops dementia, and 1 in 3 people born today will go on to develop it in their lifetime (Alzheimer’s Society).

Dementia has had a personal impact on our family through Bec’s taid, who was diagnosed with vascular dementia in March 2023, although symptoms had appeared a couple of years earlier. Watching someone you love slowly lose memories, independence and parts of who they are is heartbreaking, and it’s something no family should face alone. Dementia doesn’t just affect one person; it affects everyone who loves them.

Taid was full of warmth, humour and kindness, always ready with a story or a joke to brighten someone’s day. He loved spending time outdoors, gardening, fishing and sharing his passions with those around him. His grit, strength and unwavering resilience inspired everyone who knew him. His memory continues to drive us to take on challenges and face life head-on, a determination that will carry us through every step of this trek.

We are taking on the incredible challenge of a 4-day trek towards the grand and imposing Matterhorn on the Matterhorn Highlights trek to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society, supporting a cause very close to our hearts. We’ve chosen this charity because they support people affected by all forms of dementia, not just Alzheimer’s. Their work goes far beyond research, providing vital advice, support and reassurance to people living with dementia, as well as the families who walk alongside them. Having access to this understanding and guidance can make an overwhelming journey feel a little less lonely.

During the trek, we will tackle four demanding days of long-distance hiking, carrying everything we need across rugged alpine terrain. Covering 50 km with steep climbs and descents, we’ll face altitude, fatigue and unpredictable mountain conditions, pushing our endurance and resilience to the limit. It will be tough, but the difference we can make for a cause that truly matters makes every step worth it. We’ll be taking on this challenge with 12 amazing people, each raising money for their own chosen charity.

As this is a fully self-funded trip, every penny raised goes directly to charity.

Every donation, big or small, will help Alzheimer’s Society provide vital support, care and advice to people living with dementia and the families who walk alongside them. Your support will make a real difference, helping families like ours feel less alone and giving hope to those facing this difficult journey. Please help us raise as much as possible, every penny goes directly to charity and will make an impact.

As taid would say: “Eyy, it’s all alright — you go enjoy yourself, while you’re young.” We’ll carry his spirit with us every step of this trek, and with your support we can honour his memory in a way that truly matters.