I am taking part in this year's Great North Run on the 8th September and Belfast City Half Marathon two weeks later to raise vital funds for Dementia NI and Alzheimer's Society. As some of you will know my family has been personally affected by this terrible disease with my dad having been diagnosed with Vascular Dementia & Alzheimer's last year. Sadly we have seen first hand how it strips a person of everything we all take for granted. There are so many people suffering from Dementia in NI and across the UK yet there is no cure. I am grateful to O'Reilly Stewart for choosing Dementia NI as our office nominated charity of the year in 2024.

The Alzheimer’s Society provides so much free support to both sufferers and their family in NI and across the UK.

Dementia NI is a local charity supporting local people living with a dementia diagnosis. People with dementia taking action, having their voices heard and improving the lives of everyone who has dementia.

The lives of people are dramatically changed by a dementia diagnosis. Their vision is to ensure everyone living with dementia in NI will receive an accurate and timely diagnosis, have access to appropriate services and will live well with the right support. They work to raise awareness, educate, train and challenge the stigma of dementia.

Thank you for your support to get me round the 13.1 miles ....