Hello,

Firstly, thanks for reading this and quite frankly, taking time to visit this page.

On the 9th September 2023 I shall be taking part in Trek 26.

If you haven't already guessed by the name, it involves a 26 mile hike. This will take place up and down the southern coast of Devon.

Why on earth would I do this? Is there a highly rated, popular and often frequented pub to reach at the end? ... sadly not.

However, for a mere bit of exercise, there is an opportunity to raise money for an incredibly important charity.

There are 55 million people living with dementia around the globe. It is estimated that this number will rise to 139 million by 2050.

209,600 people will develop dementia this year, that’s one every three minutes or the time spent looking at just this page.

From my understanding, most reading this may have a distance friend, close friend or even family member who has been affected by dementia. It is a cruel disease, an unfair disease. It doesn't care who you are, who you were or what it's going to debilitate you to be.

My personal connection to this is Charles Ward, a man of incredible pride, intelligence and daily wearer of trilby hats.

Grandad decided to call it a day on his battle with dementia in February 2020. He fought it to the very end, even after the disease had attempted to take all his human abilities. Deep down inside he was still there, still Grandad.

It's hard not to form a connection to anyone suffering or caring for those with Dementia. Those around live out the ordeal day by day, adapting to changes, figuring out new ways to connect and try desperately to disconnect from the inevitable.

Alzheimer’s Society does some incredible work supporting those with and those caring for dementia, it also importantly funds research projects. Those with dementia are still living their lives and like anyone that should mean a valid fulfilled one.

We need to beat dementia.

I shall be completing this walk in memory of Grandad, Iris and Dorothy.

Thank you again so much for taking the time to visit and read...especially if you've made it to this point.

Any donation amount is hugely appreciated. I can't tell you enough how worthwhile this charity is.

All the best,

James