One ambitious fundraiser set their sights on a gruelling running challenge to raise vital funds and awareness in honour of their Grandmother.

Originally due to complete the Edinburgh Marathon in 2020, Stuart Colville’s plans to complete the 26-mile run were put on hold due to the pandemic like so many other fundraisers. With so much uncertainty around mass gathering events, Stuart set himself a new ambitious challenge to attempt the Ramsay Round.

Nearly the equivalent height to Mount Everest, the Ramsay Round takes in 23 Munros over 92kms with an 8800m ascent. Stuart, 23 from Perthshire, tells us about his jaw-dropping idea and why he chose to support Alzheimer Scotland,

“I struggle to recall staying awake for 24hours, never mind run for that length of time - this is a challenge that will definitely push me beyond my limits. This is a cause that has been close to my heart ever since my Granny was diagnosed with Vascular dementia. As I have grown up, I have seen the repercussions of Alzheimer's and watched them develop over time. The difference in behaviour from when my Granny was first diagnosed with dementia to now is of stark contrast. I have no doubt the isolation that Coronavirus has caused has accelerated this deterioration.

There is no cure for this disease and no evidence of one in the near future. This is the most sobering thought - knowing that the situation is only going to get worse.

At one stage every time I would see her she would repeat the same stories, especially when I spoke of a particular place from her past which would trigger this. I remember this being frustrating at the time, even more so for my Grandad who would hear the stories countless more times than me. Now it has reached the stage where if I spoke of one of these places it no longer triggers the same stories. They were muddled before but now it’s as though they don’t exist. It’s clear to see the progression of the disease through this example.

I dread the day, if it comes, that my Granny doesn’t recognise who I am. This is why the support provided by Alzheimer Scotland is so important and I know that me and my family may need it even more in the future.”

Alzheimer Scotland aims to ensure nobody faces dementia alone and this includes carers and families of people living with a diagnosis. Alzheimer Scotland’s 24hr Freephone Helpline is one of these services available. Stuart shared with us,

“The 24hr Freephone Helpline service benefitted my family as it allowed us to have access to advice and someone to talk to when we were experiencing issues that we were concerned with. Knowing that there are services available for future challenges we may face is reassuring for us, this is why I wanted to fundraise for Alzheimer Scotland.”

Despite an injury, on Monday 16th August 2021 Stuart started his challenge and successfully completed an incredible 19 Munros covering 90kms, raising £780.00.

Do it for Dementia - Ramsay Round

 

Well done and thank you to Stuart for his incredible efforts in aid of Alzheimer Scotland. You too can join Do it for Dementia and take on a challenge of your choice at your own pace. Registration is free and our dedicated team are on hand to support you throughout.