Raid for Dementia

Thanks to a good healthy mid-life crisis, I decided earlier this year to take on a cycling challenge. A solo effort at Raid Pyrénéen specifically (see below). The more I put into preparing for the challenge, the more I want to attempt it for a purpose greater than getting another year older. As a result of decided to try to raise some money while doing so for a cause that is very close to my family’s heart. Some years ago, my father was diagnosed with dementia. As we watch it steadily progress, we observe the disease strip him of all the great things that made the man. As this happens, his dependence on others increases with equal measure. Thankfully Dad is still mostly happy. This is thanks to the structure and people that have been built around him.

We are aware that this might change in time and very much aware that it is not the case for others. There are currently 64,000 people in Ireland living with dementia. There are over 200 different types of dementia. Many have more challenging symptoms and care arrangements that depend on support from The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.

I hope to raise as much money as possible over the coming couple of months to support this essential charity and all the people living with and caring for those with dementia.

Raid Pyrénéen

The Raid Pyrénéen is a timed bicycle challenge over a route that traverses the length of the Pyrenees between Hendaye on the Atlantic coast and Cerbere on the Mediterranean, organised by Cyclo Club Béarnais since 1950.

It can be completed in either direction - West to East, which is the most popular, or East to West. Around 300 people complete this "randonnée" each year, between 1 June and 30 September.

It’s a 720 km route passes over 18 Cols and is to be completed in under 100 hours. Participants enter the event by contacting the CCB (Cyclo Club Bearnais) and obtaining an official "carnet", which they get stamped at various control points (usually cafés or shops) along the route. A medal and certificate are awarded on successful completion.

https://ccb-cyclo.fr/en/raid-pyreneen.html#anchor-top

Raid For Dementia

Created by Liz Russell

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