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Alzheimer’s Heroes: A Mission of Strength and Resilience

Alzheimer’s Heroes was founded by George Sotiri (@georgetheosteo) to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK in memory of his father, Andrew, who passed away from Alzheimer’s. This degenerative brain disease currently has no cure and accounts for 12.5% of all deaths in the UK each year.

Determined to make a difference, George set a goal to run six marathons in six countries—four of which he has successfully completed. His journey has inspired many to join him, and in May 2025, my brother and I will take on the Tough Mudder challenge to support this worthy cause.

A Journey of Perseverance

Despite his grief, George has dedicated himself to rigorous training and advocacy for Alzheimer’s awareness. I first met him in September 2023, just weeks after completing radiotherapy for lymphoma. Nine months earlier, on Christmas Eve 2022, I was diagnosed with a 20cm mass crushing my heart and lungs, leading to an induced coma for nearly two months and six months of hospitalization at UCLH’s T12 Teenage Cancer Ward.

I lost my muscle mass, memory, and basic motor skills, requiring months of rehabilitation to relearn how to walk, move, eat, and speak. Before my illness, I was an active 17-year-old, playing football and basketball while coaching tennis and football. Meeting George at his treatment room, I was frail and could barely walk unaided.

Through relentless training at Pinnacle Fitness, George and his team have helped me rebuild my strength, confidence, and resilience. When he invited me to join the Alzheimer’s Heroes team for the Tough Mudder, I knew I couldn’t refuse. It became a powerful motivation to push myself, regain peak fitness, and prove that I could overcome any challenge.

Why This Matters

A year and a half ago, I could barely walk. Now, I am taking on Tough Mudder, a personal triumph and a way to honor George, Anthony, and their father, Andrew. Every donation brings us closer to a cure for Alzheimer’s, helping those affected and their loved ones.

On a personal note, thank you, George Sotiri, for being an inspiring force in my recovery. Your unwavering support, perseverance, and belief in me have been life-changing. Watching you train, complete marathons, and tirelessly advocate for Alzheimer’s research is truly humbling—you are a hero.

Never give up. Please donate and support the fight against Alzheimer’s.