Dani Casey

I'm walking 62K with my dogs for Dementia UK

This March, I'm taking on a 62km walking challenge with my dogs, Oti & Bert, to raise vital funds for Dementia UK. 

I'm doing this in loving memory of my wonderful Nan, Pam, who sadly passed away from Parkinson's and Dementia in October, leaving a huge hole in our hearts.

My nan loved the dogs she owned throughout her life so much and particularly struggled with the loss of her last - our beautiful Golden Retriever, Bonnie. I loved that she would always ask after and talk to me about my fur babies, even when times were mixed up and confusing for her. Dogs have a special way of knowing if they need to be calm or gentle and this was certainly the case with my huge, and usually excitable, Ridgeback and my nan. She didn't ever get to meet our second dog, Bert, but I will always treasure the memories I have of nan fussing over Oti and smiling at videos and photos I shared with her, when communicating became more challenging. 

Witnessing the impact of this devastating condition firsthand was incredibly difficult. Dementia doesn't just affect the individual; it hugely impacts their loved ones, particularly main caregivers. It is truly heartbreaking watching someone you love whole-heartedly disappear and become unrecognisable as the person you knew and loved. 

Dementia UK provides specialist dementia support for families, who really do need so much help with the care of their loved ones suffering with Dementia. Not only is this needed during the darkest and most difficult times but also the normal everyday.  Through raising money, we can work to provide families with visits, phonecalls or just advice or guidance from specialist Admiral Nurses.

I find myself thinking of my nan so much when I am strolling with my dogs so this challenge seems just so fitting for us ♥️

Every step we take will be in her honour and I hope to help other families receive the support they desperately need with every penny raised.