I’ll be running the London Marathon 2026 to help make sure dementia carers get the support they need.

When I first signed up to run, my Nonno was living with dementia, and he and my Nonna had recently celebrated an incredible 70 years of marriage. This cause is deeply personal to me, as every day my Nonna cared for him, supported by our big, close-knit family. We’re lucky to have each other and to make sure someone was always there for them, day and night.

Since then, my Nonno has sadly passed away at the age of 95. It was sudden but peaceful, and some of my family and I were in his hometown of Buonvicino at the time. A small comfort, as he had always hoped to return but couldn’t due to mobility issues and dementia.

And now heartbreakingly, three months later, my Nonna also passed away at home at the age of 91, surrounded by all of us who loved her. She had spent so many years caring for my Nonno with strength, patience, and love, far more than most people ever see or understand.

While we were fortunate enough to be there for them, I know too many carers face this journey alone, often without the resources, respite, or recognition they need. Having seen first-hand the emotional and physical toll it takes on my family, and especially on someone of my Nonna’s age, I deeply admire the work Dementia Carers Count does to support unpaid carers. They provide essential help to the people who give everything to care for someone they love.

Running the marathon in their memory is my way of honoring their strength and the sacrifices made by carers like my Nonna. It’s an honour to raise awareness for the unseen work that happens every day and to stand alongside those who give so much of themselves.

Any support you can give, whether through a donation, sharing this page, or simply cheering me on, means the world. Thank you so much!