In April 2026, I’ll be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon in support of Dementia UK—a charity that supports families affected by dementia.

This isn’t just a fitness goal for me. It’s personal. Both sides of my wife’s family have recently been affected by dementia. We’ve seen first-hand the heartbreak it causes—loved ones becoming confused, scared, and forgetting even the people closest to them. It’s hard to watch, and harder still to feel helpless.

What makes it even more painful is the impact it has on those who are closest—watching someone you love slowly disappear in front of your eyes. The moments of recognition become fewer, conversations become harder, and the roles within the family quietly shift. It's emotionally exhausting, and it leaves a lasting mark on everyone involved.

Although Dementia UK haven’t been directly involved with our family, I’m choosing to support them because of the incredible work they do for so many others in similar situations. Their specialist nurses provide vital support to people living with dementia and to those who care for them—and that support makes a real difference.

The last time I trained for a run was way back in 2008—before kids, before the beer belly, and definitely before early morning jogs sounded like a good idea. So this is going to be a massive challenge. I’m starting completely from scratch with a Couch to 5K plan, then building up to 10K, and finally tackling the half marathon distance.

Every early alarm, every ache and blister will be worth it if it helps Dementia UK reach more families in need. If you can spare anything—no matter how small—I’d be incredibly grateful. Barrie Chapman