5K's A Day for Dementia

I'm raising funds for people with dementia!

This November, my daughter, husband and I are taking on 5km of exercise every day to raise funds and awareness for dementia, in honour of my Step Dad, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease and my dear late Nanna who passed away last year.

Nan was such a trooper. A beautiful, calm lady who lived graciously through her illness, with the support of her children and especially my Uncle Pete who lived with her and cared for her as best he could. She will be forever in our hearts.

Around six years ago, we began noticing changes in my Step Dad, David's memory. Today, he struggles to remember what happened just moments before. He still knows us, and we treasure that connection, but watching someone you love become increasingly confused and distressed is heartbreaking.

The past two years have been the hardest our family has faced. As his care needs grew, the toll on my mum’s health meant she could no longer care for him at home. After 11 months in hospital waiting for suitable aged care, he finally moved into a residential home in April this year. He is being well cared for, but he often believes he is still in hospital, waiting to go home and experiences loneliness constantly as he doesn't remember our regular visits.

Alzheimer’s reaches far beyond memory loss. It can diminish motivation, affect communication and judgement, and bring anxiety, confusion and changes in mood and behaviour. 

As it progresses, it can also reduce mobility and make everyday tasks increasingly difficult, gradually taking away a person’s independence. 

It changes everyday life for the person living with it and for everyone who loves them. For me, it has meant utter grief, exhaustion, social avoidance and trying to constantly reassure the Step Dad I love and grew up with, knowing I cannot take away his fear and confusion.

We’re doing this for him, the memory of my Nanna and for every family facing dementia. If you can, please donate or share our page to help bring greater awareness and support to families like ours.

All funds raised will support the work of Dementia Australia to provide vital support services for people living with dementia, their families and carers. These services include counselling, support groups, education and training.

Thank you for your support,

Danielle, Mark and Grace x