Despite the URL, I am not doing Trek26 - I'm doing Trek13... an error on my part... but even still a 13-mile hike is still a significant challenge for me!

The main reason I'm doing this? Dementia has recently become a big part of our family life with someone very close to me suffering from this totally debilitating disease. I've experienced what it feels like to be in a front-row seat to it and I wouldn't wish it upon anybody. To sit down with somebody you love and share years of memories with and realise they don't recognise you is heartbreaking. Nobody should have to go through it, let alone go through it alone.

Raising my target for the Alzheimer's Society will pay for 2 people to have reassurance calls from the Alzheimer’s Society every week for a year. That’s 104 chances to make a difference and provide a shoulder to 2 people who could otherwise feel alone. It could also help to keep 1,560 people connected each day to Talking Point, the charity's online safe space where trouble shared can be trouble halved.

I'm also doing this because it's been a while since I've taken on some kind of challenge for charity and, after the shitshow of the last 2 years, I am relishing the thought of doing something that could have a really positive outcome.

Not gonna lie, am kind of crapping my pants... but here's to giving it a go anyway!

--

Until the day we find a cure, the Alzheimer's Society is working hard to create a world where those affected by dementia are supported.

To learn more about the charity, their work and where your money goes, visit https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

To find out more about the trek in particular, visit https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/events-and-fundraising/join-event/trekking/trek26-brecon-beacons