I am running the Great West Run on 22 May followed by the Bath Half Marathon the following weekend on 29 May 2022 for my mum and all those whose lives have been devastated by this dreadful disease. 

I’ve reminded myself how good it feels to get outside and run and am using the time to reflect on how lucky I am to have that freedom. Those living with dementia sadly don’t have that option. 

My mum used to walk miles every day with her adored Whippet and loved being outdoors but as her dementia progressed she became too terrified to even walk a few steps from her front door for fear of getting lost. Her world literally closed in on her. She is now at an advanced stage which is devastating to see. 

We must keep doing all we can to find a cure for this disease which is affecting an increasing number of people.