Steve McKernan

Walking the Long Goodbye: Why I’m Doing 50 Miles This January

Dementia is often called "the long goodbye." It’s a diagnosis that doesn’t just affect an individual; it reshapes an entire family.

The Ripple Effect

When dementia enters a home, roles reverse. Children become parents to their mothers and fathers, and spouses become full-time caregivers. Beyond the memory loss, families face anticipatory grief—the heartbreak of losing a person while they are still physically there. It can be a lonely, exhausting, and overwhelming journey.

My 50-Mile Mission

This January, I’m walking 50 miles to support those living in the shadow of this condition.

I’ve chosen this challenge to raise vital funds for specialist dementia support. Every mile I clock serves a purpose:

• Expert Care: Helping fund specialist nurses who provide a lifeline to families in crisis.

• Awareness: Breaking the silence and stigma that often leads to family isolation.

• Solidarity: Showing caregivers that they don’t have to walk this path alone.

The January weather may be cold, but it’s nothing compared to the resilience shown by families affected by dementia every single day