Sarah-Jane Reeves

Why I’m walking for dementia

On the 17th of December 2025, I lost my grandad to dementia.

Even writing those words still feels unreal.

Dementia is a cruel, devastating disease — one that takes people far too early, not just physically but piece by piece, day by day. It steals memories, independence, and the very essence of who someone is, long before it takes their life. Watching someone you love fade in that way is heartbreaking beyond words.

My grandad was not defined by illness. He was an active, fit, and incredibly determined man. He ran five London Marathons and completed countless 10k and 20k runs — purely for the love of it, for the challenge, and for the sense of achievement. Movement was part of who he was. He was strong, capable, and full of life.

That’s why I’m walking.

I’m walking in his memory, and for every family who is currently living through the devastation of dementia. I’m walking for those who have lost loved ones, and for those who are watching someone they love slowly slip away. I’m walking to raise awareness of a disease that affects not just the individual, but everyone around them.

Dementia doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care how fit you are, how healthy you’ve been, or how full your life is. It can touch any family, at any time. And until you experience it firsthand, it’s impossible to truly understand the impact it has.

This walk is my way of honouring my grandad — the man who ran marathons, who showed resilience and strength, and who deserved so much more time. It’s also my way of turning grief into purpose, and pain into action.

If walking helps raise awareness, funds, and hope for better support, better care, and one day a cure, then every step will be worth it.

This one’s for you, Grandad 🕊️