Our Challenge

We're going to walk 100km, from London to Brighton. In one go - no sleep, just jelly babies and glow sticks to keep us going!

Our Story

Half a lifetime ago we met as fresh faced students at university, and bonded over a shared competitive spirit (honed as oarsman and cox - we will let you guess which was which!) and some enthusiastic dance moves! Fast forward to 2024 and we're safely into our mid-30s and maybe drifted away from the athleticism of our youth. Come New Year's Eve and we're seeing in 2024, both with a relationship with Alzheimer's Society, and both looking for challenge...

James

Alzheimer's and dementia runs in my family, especially for the women on my maternal side. Recently that has hit even closer to home, with my mum being diagnosed. Given the challenges that brings for her and my family, that's a big trigger to want to do something. 

The Alzheimer's Society has provided support to my family by giving sufferers people to talk to, organising events to keep them active and keep them socially engaged (from choir to art classes), and offering a safe space for my relatives who are providing care. The support and expertise they offer is invaluable. They also invest huge amounts in dementia research, aiming for a better future.

So why this challenge? Over the last couple of years, I've had a number of mental health challenges and life has taken some unexpected twists and turns. I let my weight increase and didn't really look after myself. As part of my own recovery, I've been looking for something positive to really focus on. I also want to rediscover some of the athleticism of my youth as I approach 35. And raising money for charity is the sort of thing that makes me really commit to it!

Jen

Alzheimer’s and Dementia have not left my family and friends untouched.  I remember in particular as a teenager a neighbour coming round to our house to ask for help as they had no idea what the date was, and it was difficult to see their gradual decline. Knowing that Alzheimer’s Society is there to support everyone who needs help navigating this awful disease is amazing, and I want to raise some money to help them continue their good work!

Personally, like many parents with young children, I have struggled to look after myself over the last few years.  I have no idea right now if I can actually walk 100km continuously, but hopefully by the time we are on the starting line I will be feeling confident and ready!

P.S. Please share all blister prevention and treatment tips, I think we are going to need them!

A bit more on Alzheimer's, Dementia and the Alzheimer's Society

Over 900,000 people in the UK currently suffer from dementia, with over 65,000 deaths (12.5% of all deaths) each year. Dementia is an incredibly cruel condition, for sufferers, but also for all those who love those who endure it. Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia.

The Alzheimer's Society provide direct help to those living with dementia today, including 1-2-1 care, group activities, and support to carers. They also play a key role in the fight against Alzheimer's overall, investing over £10m a year in research and shaping the way the UK diagnoses, treats, and supports people with dementia.