It’s longer than a full marathon, and Carole Steers has never done any serious walking or running before, but in September the Davidson Road resident intends to step out across the 30 miles from Putney to Runnymede to raise funds for a great cause, the Alzheimer’s Society.

Long way to go: charity fund-raiser Carole Steers

“I decided to walk the Thames Path Challenge in one day for the Alzheimer’s Society in memory of my great aunt, Nancy, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, who passed away in October last year,” Steers said.

“Nancy loved to be out walking in the countryside and this is my way of saying goodbye. I am hoping that by raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society that more support can be provided for carers as well as allowing the Society to continue its search for a cure.”

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. There is no cure for the disease, which worsens as it progresses. Early symptoms include difficulty in remembering recent events. As the disease advances, symptoms can include confusion, irritability and aggression, mood swings, trouble with language, and long-term memory loss. According to the Alzheimer’s Society 1 in 3 people over 65 will die with dementia.

Alzheimer’s Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer’s disease. In just ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051

Steers hopes to raise more than £400 by trekking the 30 miles along the Thames to Runnymede on September 14.

“I’m training pretty hard for the challenge and try to get out when ever I can. It will be the first time I have ever done anything quite as long and challenging as this, so I’m really excited about it all,” she said.

“I’m training partly with my husband, who is also undertaking a charity walk for the Matt Hampson Foundation, and partly with two work colleagues who are also doing the Thames Walk. However, as they live in north London the majority of the training is by myself.”

Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are delighted that Carole is giving her time to support Alzheimer’s Society. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia. It is more than just memory loss; it robs people of their lives and has a devastating impact on families and loved ones.

“As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Carole to help us continue our vital work. Please back Carole in their fundraising efforts so that Alzheimer’s Society can continue leading the fight against dementia.”

To sponsor Carole please visit www.justgiving.com/carole-steers or text LLUK50 £3 to 70070 to sponsor her today

• Alzheimer’s Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

• Inside Croydon: For comment and analysis about Croydon, from inside Croydon
• Post your comments on this article below. If you have a news story about life in or around Croydon, a residents’ or business association or local event, please email us with full details at inside.croydon@btinternet.com