We fought to get a diagnosis for my mum. Upon the Alzheimer's diagnosis, Mum was prescribed some medication set to "ease" the symptoms. To measure what she is like vs. what she could've been like, is surely impossible!? I'm fundraising to help make a difference, so nobody in future should have to go through what my dad, brother and I are currently going through, slowly losing a loved one.

After school, mum travelled the world as an au pair living in such places as Lebanon and Sicily. She returned home fluently speaking Spanish, Italian, French and being able to read Arabic. Because of this, she sailed through university, which brought her up to Yorkshire. Dad fell in love with a high flying career girl, who continued to travel the world exporting fabric. When Freddie and I came into the world, she became Head of Languages at Craven College so had the long holidays to spend quality time with us and take us to cool places. I was always so proud when she'd chatter away to people in their language and they would then be surprised to hear that she was English. Always someone to turn to for advice, Mum would always be able to put my worried mind at rest. I did A Level French thinking it would be an easy option but rather than telling me all the answers, she wanted me to actually learn, so my final grade was rubbish!

This cruel, mean and evil disease has shattered all the confidence mum once had. I now look after her rather than the other way round. I donate monthly to Alzheimer's Research (linked to Alzheimer's Society) and they send me an email every month to notify me of breakthroughs they're making. They found that Vitamin B12 decreases the likelihood of inheriting Alzheimer's, so I'm obviously necking back the supplements daily. They're making breakthroughs, but with more money, I hope one day they will be able to find a cure or at least better medication. I realise this won't happen in mum's lifetime, but I don't want anyone else to have to go through this.

Alzheimer's Society is transforming the landscape of dementia forever. Until the day a cure is found, they aim to create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.