After securing my place in the London marathon in April 2020, which clearly didn’t go ahead due to Covid, I then completed the virtual run in the October, solo in the pouring ran. Enough to make it likely that I’d never want to attempt that distance again, as it’s honestly madness!

However, my Mum sadly passed away on 21st April this year after several years suffering from dementia. We only lost her very recently, we truly lost her some time ago as latterly she didn’t talk, couldn’t walk and touch was really her only form of communications. It’s so incredibly heartbreaking to see the most important woman in your life revert from being a strong, independent, fun and highly intelligent person to a child and then to just a shell. My Granny also died, albeit less prematurely, after suffering with Alzheimer’s 15 years ago too.

Mummy did thankfully die very peacefully in her sleep; however, I’d not wish this awful disease on anyone and truly hope it never touches your life. That is why I have decided I will now run (probably walk quite a lot) this year’s marathon after all, for Alzheimer’s Research, in the hope that any monies raised will go a little towards finding a cure in the future, so others don’t have to see the deterioration of their loved one, like we have.

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A bit about the charity I’ve chosen to represent: Alzheimer’s Society is transforming the landscape of dementia forever.

Until the day we find a cure, we will create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.