Alzheimer’s disease and dementia affect nearly a million people in the UK alone, and that number is only growing. Chances are, you don’t need statistics to understand this — you know someone who’s been touched by it. A parent, a grandparent, a neighbour, a friend. Dementia has a way of reaching into almost every family, sooner or later.

Alzheimer’s Research UK exists to change that story. They fund pioneering research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of dementia, working towards a future where it’s no longer something to fear. Every pound raised goes towards getting us closer to a cure — and closer to a day when families won’t have to watch someone they love slowly disappear.

Louise’s reason for fundraising:

“My mother supported a close family friend through her journey with Alzheimer’s, from diagnosis until her passing. It was a mostly sad journey, but we treasure the happy moments.

Not long after, my mother’s best friend was also diagnosed, and eventually died from the disease. Again, we hold onto the happy times before it took hold.

Alzheimer’s brings so much sadness — any research that can help should be supported. Both families continue to raise funds in memory of our loved ones.”

Not everyone taking on a challenge has the time to build a big fundraising campaign — and that’s okay. You can still make a direct impact by donating to Alzheimer’s Research UK today. Every donation, big or small, helps fund the research that will one day make a diagnosis like the ones described above a thing of the past.