As many of you know, Dementia is a cause that is very close to my heart. My family and I are currently caring for Mum as she battles dementia; watching a loved one struggle with this cruel disease has been truly heartbreaking for the whole family.

To raise awareness of the UK’s biggest health and social care crisis, alongside raising vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society, I am taking on an epic solo challenge. I am diving in at the deep end, channeling my inner “Dory” and challenging myself to “Just Keep Swimming” over ONE THOUSAND laps of a (25 metre) pool during the month of October.

For anyone who hasn’t watched Finding Nemo, the Dory reference is quite poignant. Dory suffers with short term memory loss. Sadly, memory loss is often among the very first signs of dementia and identifying this symptom early (along with others) can play a vital part in securing an all-important early diagnosis.

Nearly 1 million people in the UK are living with dementia and devastatingly, 1 in 3 do not have a diagnosis. Securing an early diagnosis is so important and can ensure loved ones get the right care and the treatment they need and deserve. I know first-hand that securing an earlier diagnosis for Mum would have had a hugely positive impact, not just for her but for our whole family.

I will be posting updates of my challenge throughout the month (don’t worry, I will keep the speedo snapshots to myself!) and I would absolutely love it if you could get behind me and make a donation to the wonderful charity, Alzheimer’s Society. Every penny raised from this challenge is being very kindly match funded by Z-Zurich Foundation as part of Insurance Day for Dementia 2024, so please do dig deep; your donation will have DOUBLE the impact for those living with dementia.

Many of you may know that I am honoured to be a Board member for Insurance United Against Dementia: an industry led campaign that supports Alzheimer’s Society’s strategy to provide help and hope for those living with dementia, ultimately creating a world where dementia no longer devastates lives. Working closely with the charity in this way has fuelled my already existing passion to make impactful changes to the lives of those living with dementia now and in the future and has given me a wider insight into the devastating reality of this cruel disease. What’s more, I know just how much of a difference funds raised from challenges like this will make so please do swim deeply… I mean dig deeply… and donate if you can.

Thank you so much in advance for your kindness and generosity.