Hello!

If you know us, you may know that in 2022, Jess's mum Steph was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA). This is an extremely rare brain condition that affects speech and language - so rare that even many health professionals are not familiar with it.

Firstly, we would really appreciate it if you could take a little time to understand a little bit more about Primary Progressive Aphasia so that people are more aware of this very rare condition, as one of the hardest things from mum's diagnosis has been feeling like no one understands. Please find out more here: https://www.raredementiasupport.org/primary-progressive-aphasia/, or ask Jess for further information and she'll be happy to share :)

When Steph was first diagnosed, we were completely in the dark really with not very much support or information given to us about what to do next. Then we found Rare Dementia Support (RDS), and we finally felt like there were people out there who could support us. John & Jess now go to regular in-person and online meetings to get the best advice, support and information, and meet other people going through the same thing. RDS have been incredible and all their support is completely free.

For that reason, Jess & Ryan are running the Royal Parks Half Marathon in October 2024, raising money for RDS to help them continue doing their amazing work (via The National Brain Appeal, who are the charity that fund RDS).

We would really appreciate any donation you can give to help us raise funds to continue RDS's brilliant service.

Thanks so much in advance for any donation you can give!

Jess & Ryan x