Fountains Abbey Christmas jumper 5k Fun Run

In February 2026 my mother in law kay passed away after a long battle with Dementia. This year I am taking part in a 5k fun run alongside Angela one of my colleagues at Dementia Forward and some of our family members raising money for a charity that has become incredibly close to my heart.

Kay didn't receive the support she needed during her journey with Dementia. Living further south meant that the specialist support provided by Dementia Forward across North Yorkshire wasn't something that was available to her or our family. Kay also unfortunately had cancer and had a Dementia nurse tell her husband that people with Dementia could not feel pain and suggested giving her Calpol for the pain caused by stage 4 cancer. This misinformation needs to stop. It is wrong and it is dangerous. This experience has stayed with me. 

Dementia can be an incredibly difficult and frightening journey, not just for the person living with it, but for the whole family. Having someone to listen, provide guidance, advocate for you and navigate the challenges can make such a huge difference.

And now something that means incredibly meaningful to me is that I work for Dementia Forward. Every day me and Angela  see the difference that the charity makes to people living with Dementia and those that care for them. We see the importance of making sure people feel heard, supported and most importantly, that they don't have to face Dementia alone. 

I wish Kay could have Dementia Forward in her corner.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help Dementia Forward continue its vital work across North Yorkshire.

For Kay. For families. For everyone affected by Dementia.

Thank you for reading, donating, sharing and supporting us. Every penny really will make a difference.