"I want to raise awareness, not just for the patients who live with dementia, but for the families and carers as well."
Melanie shares why she took on the challenge to walk 1 mile a day for the month of May.
“In early 2023, my Mam had a nasty fall unfortunately resulting in crushed vertebrae. She was 87 at the time. She did recover from that horrific injury but began to steadily decline after that.
“Forgetfulness was a big factor, and she suffered from mood swings and irritability. After tests and a brain scan, my Mam was diagnosed with mixed dementia at 88 years old. She had Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
“From there, she declined rapidly. I watched my Mam fade away into someone I didn’t recognise. It was the most heart breaking journey.
“In Feb 2025, my Mam went into a care home. She lost her ability to walk and much of her independence. She began to speak in riddles. Sadly, she forgot who everyone in our family was, except for me.
“My Mam turned 90 years old in Dec 2025. On her birthday she told me, very coherently, that she’d had enough and wanted to go to her boys. She lost three sons during her lifetime.
“A month later, in January 2026, my Mam passed away. She went very peacefully.
“It’s just a tough disease which caused my family sadness every time we saw my Mam. It felt like we were saying goodbye to her over and over.
“I’m walking 31 Miles in May to support people living with dementia, like my Mam, their families who go through this difficult journey alongside them, and the hardworking carers who work to keep their patients’ dignity for as long as possible.”
-Melanie
You can support Melanie and everyone who is taking part in the 31 Miles in May Challenge for Dementia Care in the Mater Hospital by donating below: