Running in my father's footsteps
The Challenge
On October 20th, I'll be lacing up my running shoes to tackle the Great South Run - a 10-mile (16km) course along the blustery Portsmouth seafront. But this isn't just any race for me. I'm running in honour of my Dad, who we lost this year. He was a Great South Run veteran, having completed it in 2017, 2019, and 2021 with an impressive average time of 1 hour and 31 minutes. My Dad loved a challenge, and now it's my turn to carry on his legacy and try and match his impressive pace.
Why this matters
My Dad's journey wasn't just about running. In his later years, he faced the challenges of Alzheimer's, a battle that affects millions of families worldwide. During this difficult time, my family found an incredible ally in the Dementia Care Hub.
The Dementia Care Hub
The Dementia Care Hub isn't just another charity - they are a lifeline. I'm supporting them because they're a smaller organization that's often overlooked, yet provides essential services to the local community. Their impact is profound and personal:
- Comprehensive Support: From the moment of diagnosis and beyond, they're there every step of the way, offering a continuity of care that larger organizations often can't match.
- Innovative Empowerment: Using cutting-edge approaches like Material Citizenship and the Adjusting to Change Model, they empower individuals to live life to the fullest, despite the challenges of dementia.
- Emotional Guidance: Their We Care Dementia Care program, grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, provides crucial support to families navigating the emotional landscape of dementia.
- Community Building: They foster connection and joy through social groups for both those living with dementia and their care partners, creating a support network that extends beyond medical care.
By supporting the Dementia Care Hub, we're not just funding a charity; we're investing in a vital community resource that makes a tangible difference in the lives of anyone affected by dementia.
Your impact
By supporting my run, you're not just helping me honour my Dad's memory. You're extending a helping hand to countless families facing the challenges of dementia. Your donation, no matter the size, will:
- Provide crucial emotional and practical support to those who need it most
- Fund innovative programs that improve quality of life for people with dementia
- Support research and education to change how we understand and approach dementia care.
How You Can Help
1. Donate: Any amount makes a difference!
2. Share: Spread the word!
3. Cheer Me On: Your encouragement will keep me going through every mile!
Let's turn my 10-mile run into a marathon of hope for those affected by dementia. Together, we can honour my Dad's memory and create a brighter future for families facing this challenge.
Thank you for your support!
Organizer
Matt King
Organizer
The Dementia Care Hub
Beneficiary