STRIDING OUT FOR DEMENTIA

Movement has always made sense to me. Dad was a keen marathon runner and, as a family, we watched him compete in short and long distance races around the world. Mum took it up in order to train for the London Marathon and enjoyed one of the best days of her life doing it.

As an adult, I've raised money for charity doing one full and a handful of half marathons. It's a great way to raise money, awareness and to make your moves 'public' so that it becomes a mission you can't duck out of! The high of completing an event is tremendous as is the sense of achievement.
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Recently, mum's dementia has taken centre stage and at times I've resented the situation and at other times I've felt so tearful for the mum that I'm losing. However, as time has passed and she has descended further, I've come to terms with it more and I've learnt to make it my mission to turn pain into purpose. This approach has really helped me. One of the challenges I've taken on is a Trek26; these are a series of half and full marathon walks organised by the Alzheimer's Society.

So off I'll set on 11th. May to walk the 26 mile route around Stonehenge, and beyond! This event has given me a goal and I hope on the day to meet many others in the same boat as I.
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Best of luck to everyone on a mission!