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.

My wife Bertha, who is Peruvian by birth, became a victim to this 'bizarre' disease in 2013-14 and formally diagnosed in 2015. Why 'bizarre' because the symptoms for every patient vary widely and it's difficult to predict what the next stage will be. It's classed more as a condition than an illness and the patient has difficulty from the outset expressing their symptoms and feelings.  

 Against this backdrop I took the decision to keep her at home for as long as possible  so she could be with people people who love and cherish her. This is not just family and friends but also a small group of dedicated careworkers who attend to her daily needs. 

In the intervening years the help she needs has changed from companionship to 24 hour care. Bertha's condition has affected her muscular controls so she is now wheelchair bound and unable to talk.

IS THIS DEPRESSING FOR ME? NO WAY!! I enjoy looking after her. Bertha lives in a busy household with a room adapted for her needs, great views of Sheffield, and a  varied lifestyle .

Bertha has shared experiences with everyone around her and we do our best to make  our lives fun.  For this reason it is our intention is to take Bertha to theThree Peaks Challenge, to support the Alzheimers' Society and to show everybody life with Alzheimers' is possible and should be enjoyed. 

Within this spirit of optimism which  you can see in the photos, please donate to the Alzheimers' Society to support the work they are doing whilst our team haul ourselves up the three highest hills in Yorkshire as a symbol of our own support. Meanwhile Bertha will be at the end to welcome us back.