After being diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2015, my father (Michael) was diagnosed with Lewy Body Disease in 2021. Lewy Body dementia is the second most common cause of age-related dementia, affecting around 130,000 people in the UK. I am raising money for The Lewy Body Society to help raise awareness of the disease and raise funds for research so that in future it can be more easily diagnosed and treated.

Many people have not heard of this disease, we certainly hadn't, which has some similar traits to Alzheimers but also Parkinsons and frequently individuals are tormented by confusion, hallucinations, delusions and paranoia. Lewy Body has slowly and progressively reduced my Dad's independence, confidence, problem solving ability, speech, mobility and his swallowing capacity. To all those who know him, he is a fun loving, hard working, kind and witty person who loves his family, and he certainly does not deserve this cruel disease. Hopefully, a cure will be found for Lewy Body Dementia so that no-one ever has to fear its onset.

My Dad is a truly wonderful and brave man who when diagnosed with Lewy Body, was scared, but also very brave and tackles the disease head on. The disease is progressing and has been for a few years. He currently is being looked after in a care home in Australia, but still enjoys seeing his family and my Mum who cares and has cared for him and guided him through his struggles. Their determination and positivity in the face of a cruel and horrible disease has inspired me to try and raise some funds for this wonderful charity.

I have challenged myself this year to complete in 3 major events in London. In April I will be running the TCS London Marathon (26.2 miles). A month later I will be riding the Ride London-Essex 100 mile bike ride. Then in September I will be swimming the Serpentine in Hyde Park. Whilst I am a keen runner this is a big challenge for me, but during those moments of struggling and motivation I think of what my Dad, and my Mum have and are going through, and this is a huge motivation to get those trainers on, cycle up those hills and swim in the cold water.

The Lewy Body Society have kindly supplied me with a running vest which I will be wearing during the marathon and throughout the year around my local town.

If you are able to donate anything to help this incredibly worthy cause I and my family, and The Lewy Body Society would be very appreciative.

Thank you for reading.

(Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.)