Every time one of my friends ran a half marathon, I  stood at the side line cheering them on thinking “THAT WILL NEVER BE ME” - how wrong was I? Having never run more than 1 x 15km, there is no doubt that Sunday will be the biggest challenge I have ever set myself! However, it is for an amazing cause & one I have wanted to support for a long time. 

In 2001 my Granny was Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s (a progressive disease that damages brain cells leading to complete loss of memory). Since her diagnosis, she has become unable to communicate, feed herself, dress herself, walk or complete any of the daily tasks we take for granted. She is also unable to recognise anyone…It is hard to explain the feeling you feel when someone you have always loved, doesn’t know who you are anymore.

For 16 years, my Grandad single handedly cared for my Granny at home. We honestly believe this is the reason we have been so lucky to have her around for so long (on average a person with Alzheimer’s lives 4 to 8 years after diagnosis). As many people close to me already know, there really is no love quite as strong as the one between my Granny & Grandad! This challenge is truly as much for him as it is for her! 

While my Granny’s case is so advanced that no treatment would be sufficient in turning back time - I hope that more money can be raised for Alzheimer’s Society, meaning more research can be done to find ways of slowing down the disease and eventually finding a cure. 

If you can spare any donation, no matter how big or small, it would mean so much to me, my family and especially my Grandad. Together we can beat this truly heartbreaking disease! 

THANK YOU & SEE YOU AT THE FINISH LINE! 

Ash x