Reading Half Marathon

[p]Three and a half years ago, my loving, caring and wonderful mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the young age of 62. This is technically known as young onset dementia. Every day I am constantly amazed at how my mum copes with her diagnosis and the challenges that dementia can bring – and I realise just what a wonderful and strong woman she is. I have come to realise that dementia is not my mum, but my mum is a lady that is living (and living life to the full) with dementia.[/p][p]Over 42,000 people diagnosed with dementia in the UK are aged between 30 and 65, and although it is a life-changing condition at any age, when you are younger, the impact that it can have for the individual and those around them are significantly different. This is where the wonderful work of YoungDementia UK comes in – a charity committed to helping those affected by this challenging condition and providing the necessary support.[/p][p]Now, I am no runner, but at a family occasion I made a pact that I would run a half marathon to raise money for YoungDementia UK – so here I am, preparing to run the Reading Half in March 2019 for this wonderful cause. I am truly thankful for all of you who are willing to donate and support this wonderful charity – something that is so close to my heart.[/p][p]I am not going to find it easy – but living with dementia is not easy either, and so I want to do what I can to help make a little difference.[/p][p]Thank you for all your support – your donations will help me put one foot in front of the other when I am running, but more than that – they will help other individuals, families and carers come to terms with the impact of a diagnosis of young onset dementia – and that is so important.[/p][p]xx[/p]