On 12th May 2024, I woke up early and saw a message for Trek26, a walk for Alzheimer's Society and decided to sign-up for my Mum. It was Mothers Day. The morning of the event was interesting as the Fire Alarm in the hotel activated at 04:30, a rude awakening, however my husband and I were due to rise at 05:00 for a 06:30 start at Ullswater, Lake District.

When we were informed we could go back to our rooms, the guests (in various states of undress), went back to their rooms.

The morning sun was rising and looked to be a beautiful day for walking!

With over 600 walkers signed up to complete either the 13 miles and 26 miles walk, we met at the respective start line, after a welcome breakfast butty and cuppa!

I asked my friends, family and colleagues to sponsor me and share a couple of songs so I could create a Spotify Playlist. The final compilation was eclectic to say the least, from thrash metal to Bugsy Malone, it definitely made me smile and keep the pace with some of the dance tunes also included! I thought I would add here for those who appreciate random music here.

The whole day and experience was energising and added real value with raising £460 for charity. I thoroughly enjoyed my solo walk, with music, audio-book as well as having a chat with fellow walkers and our collective purpose, along the way. The scenery was spectacular and the drink in the local pub, with my medal and hugely supportive hubby (who's going to sign-up next year) was very special and a real sense of achievement. My Mum has lived with Alzheimer's for 11 years, is now, non-communicative and bed-bound. Having lived from the fall-out from this disease, I will continue to support this charity until science has a break-through!