That's Marya Fforde, my Mum, pictured in 1964. She passed away in 2023 aged 96 after living with Alzheimer's for seven years. It was a difficult journey for all of us but not without its high points. I took Mum for drives around the spectacular Elan Valley on a regular basis, and each time I took her she enjoyed it as though it were the first. My adventure with dementia is currently over and although it was often exhausting and thankless, I do not regret having been there, and others who have emerged the other side too often agree.

The Alzheimer's Society supports all those who are living with Alzheimers, and that definition includes anyone involved with the person who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's - carers and supporters need help too, as it is often an exhausting journey. This is my third TREK26, and I will keep on raising cash for this most worthy of causes just so long as I have legs and a mind to work them. Please help me help others. Thank you.