Firstly, thank you so much for taking the time to visit my page.

On May 17th 2020 I will be running my first ever Half Marathon- something I have always wanted to do but never thought possible as I was previously a chronic run 5 km and giver upper! (Due to Coronavirus- postponed until Autumn 2020- will update with new date)

I have decided to take this opportunity to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer's society, a charity striving for change and supporting those effected by this life changing and upsetting condition. This cause is very dear to my heart and will be my unfaltering motivation to keeping training and pushing myself towards those 13.1 miles. Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. Someone develops it every three minutes and there’s currently no cure. Alzheimer’s Society are the only UK charity investing in research into dementia care, cause, cure and prevention, committed to spending £150 million on cutting-edge research over the next decade.

Growing up I have personally seen this illness take a hold of two of the most important women in my life; my Granny suffering when I was around 6 years old and most recently my Grandma.

I feel very lucky that until the end they both remembered who I was, but seeing the reality of their deterioration- losing any sense of reality, their treasured memories and coming to fear everyday life was indescribably heartbreaking. Not only this but seeing the pain it caused my mum caring for my grandma  and how much of her life also was given over to the dementia was very hard.

Working as a care assistant in a residential home for the elderly in 2019 I was also involved in the direct care of those suffering from the symptoms of Alzheimer's. I experienced first hand the cruelties of this disease; how it can alter personalities, strip one of dignity, cause great loneliness, vulnerability, anxiety a swell as causing great pain to loved ones as their, mum, dad, partner, grandparent or sibling, starts to fade more and more from the person they once were.

I am very proud to be running in memory of two incredibly special, strong and gentle natured women who taught me so much and possessed qualities that I strive for in myself, as well as those I made special bonds with and cared for at Bethune Court residential home. 

Any donation however small would mean so much to me, The Alzheimer’s Society and to those whose lives are affected by this distressingly sad illness. 

Thank you again,

Beth 

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