I'm taking the leap for the Alzheimer's Society to help beat dementia. Together, we can find a cure.

On my grandad's birthday weekend, I am doing a 15,000 ft sky dive to raise money for a charity that is so important to me and my family: The Alzheimer's Society. 

My grandad Terry is not remembered or defined by his Alzheimer’s.  

He is remembered for being a rock to his family -- a loving husband, a wonderful father, and a devoted grandad and great-grandad. 

I remember him for always being outside ‘tinkering’ with something in the garage when we pulled up to his house. It took him hours to park the car, as he searched for that perfect dent-proof parking spot. He always, always had his camcorder at the ready, quick to capture anything that might be a precious memory- he was just so proud of his family, and wanted to preserve every moment and treasure the memories. 

He did everything, anything for his family. He was safety and strength.  

The BBQ king! Always outdoors, he found joy in tending the garden. The foxes were so tame to him that we could feed them by hand.  

I remember his cheery northern accent and the way he’d clap his hands and say ‘come on then’ whenever we left the house.

He had a bright smile that would light up the room. He loved liquorice and IPA! 

He was ambitious and hard-working, making a successful career as an architect and property developer. Even as the Alzheimer's ate at his memories, he could still pick up a pencil and draw the most beautiful houses.   

I remember his kind, loving touch. I still feel the touch of his skin and his gentle kiss on my forehead when we said goodbye for the last time.  

Terrance James -- an inspiring man who will always be our hero. I hold his memory so deeply in my heart that I feel him with every step I take. Even today, in my current job role, I see grandad in every one of my clients and I want them to know all the love, respect and dignity that he deserved.  

Dementia is a cruel, tragic disease that can affect anyone. Every penny helps raise money for a fantastic charity that is getting closer to finding cures and medicines, helping to care for those with Alzheimer’s, and also offering badly needed support to the loved ones affected. With this sky jump I aim to raise some money, but also to raise awareness of the charity and the disease. 

 I want to be up in the sky, as near as I can get to my grandad on his birthday. I know he'll give me the strength to conquer my fear of heights, and I know that would make him proud. 

Every penny counts. Please support this wonderful charity: