"Our memory defines who we are" 

Mum was diagnosed with Frontal Variant Alzheimer's disease (fvAD) in May 2019, age 72. Before the diagnosis we'd seen some occasional odd behaviours, forgetfulness and confusion, but were still incredibly shocked when we heard it confirmed by the Doctor. Hearing those words struck an overwhelming sense of fear, and over the past 2 years we have seen a dramatic and heart-breaking decline in her mental and physical health, as our early fears were confirmed.

There is real courage in people who have Alzheimer’s - completely unaware of where they are, or who is speaking to them, whilst also suffering emotionally. Alzheimer’s is a disease that waits in the shadows, and when it slowly creeps into someone’s life, there is no going back. The illness has made Mum almost unrecognisable.

Mum would do anything for her lads, and always remained proud of us. She would bring us into any conversation with her friends, at every opportunity. Her life particularly centred around her family, and no matter what the circumstance, Mum would always be there for us and would never let us down.

Mum would always put others first before herself. She was fiercely independent, strong willed, and a proud lady with strong traditional values. She taught us the rights and wrongs of the world - Mum was our role model, and everything we could aspire to be. Her gentle words of advice, encouragement and support, which would always end with the words "I love you, y'know", no matter if we were in the wrong.

The type of Alzheimer's that Mum has is particularly cruel, and life expectancy from the first symptoms is 5-10 years. From a very early stage, it brings out all kinds of emotions, and some of the worst behaviours and traits. This can be hard to witness, but we will always remain immensely proud of her. Moments that stick in our memories centre around her lack of social awareness, or where she has behaved completely out of character. At the start we saw signs of her being vacant, aggressive or acting inappropriately, and this behaviour has just got more and more frequent. Now it is rare that we see anything we recognise of the old Mum, but there are very occasional flashes which we all cherish.

As a way of showing how much Mum means to us, and in support for the Alzheimer's Society, Tristan (with the support of his friend, Ainslee) will embark upon a week-long challenge. Starting the 15th August, running 6 half Marathons, finished by a full Marathon, in 7 consecutive days. We would appreciate all the support you can offer as Tristan takes on this momentous feat. Please share far and wide with family and friends to raise awareness, and more valuable funds for such a worthwhile charity.

There is no truer saying than 'Life is Precious'. Seeing Mum fade away makes you realise just how important it is to seize every moment, every second, to be the best version of yourself that you can be. That would be Mum's advice too.

Nicholas, Mark, Gregory & Tristan

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The 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.