Five at Fifty Fundraiser for Dementia

What is Five at Fifty?It’s a fundraising challenge to mark my 50th year by running five marathons across three continents, all to raise as much money and awareness as possible for Dementia UK.Late last year, I said goodbye to my mum after a 15‑year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, which slowly stripped away her strength and independence.My dad also lived with Parkinson’s disease for many years, and this year marks ten years since we lost him. His Parkinson’s progressed slowly, affecting him more and more as the years went on.Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things any of us will ever face, and losing them slowly over many years is something no family is ever prepared for. In comparison, running marathons feels easy.My motivation to join the Dementia UK charity team comes from the profound impact these neurological conditions have had on my family. Supporting my parents from afar showed me how these conditions affect everyone around them - not just the person diagnosed, but the family members who carry the emotional burden in their own way.By sharing my family’s story, I hope to raise awareness, inspire others, and contribute to the research and support that can change the future for families affected by dementia.The challengeGold Coast Marathon - 5 July 2026
Sydney Marathon - 30 August 2026
Berlin Marathon - 27 September 2026
Chicago Marathon - 11 October 2026
New York Marathon - 1 November 2026

Your donation goes directly to Dementia UK through JustGiving

Australian supporters can donate in AUD to avoid foreign transaction fees

Dementia UK is a UK‑registered charity that provides specialist dementia nurses, known as Admiral Nurses. These nurses offer expert, compassionate support to families living with dementia - helping them navigate medical, emotional, and practical challenges.Their work is life‑changing, and your support helps ensure more families can access the care they need.Learn more at: www.dementiauk.org

How Your Donation Is Handled

  • Donations made through JustGiving go directly to Dementia UK.

  • MyCause donations (and any cash donations) come to me first. I then transfer the full amount to Dementia UK in GBP.

  • Tax deduction is not available for AUD donations, as Dementia UK is a UK‑registered charity.

  • This structure gives UK donors access to Gift Aid while giving Australian donors the option to avoid foreign transaction fees.