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Hiking for Dementia: Conquering the Peaks

Writer's picture: Daksha MistryDaksha Mistry

Updated: Sep 23, 2023


This is Jackie's Story...


In the face of adversity, we often discover the strength within ourselves and those around us. That's exactly what happened when my dad was diagnosed with vascular dementia. It was a challenging time for our family, but it also became the catalyst for an incredible journey of determination and courage.



I decided to take action, not just for my dad, but for all those affected by dementia. And so, the idea of a hiking challenge was born. I enlisted the support of six of my husband & work colleagues: Dilip, Andrea, Cath, Clare, and Mark. Together, we embarked on a mission to summit three of the UK's most iconic peaks. Our goal was not only to conquer these mountains but also to raise funds and awareness for Dementia UK.


On the 18th of September 2021, our team set out to tackle this monumental challenge. The journey was not just physically demanding but emotionally charged. Each step we took was a symbol of our commitment to the cause and our loved ones affected by dementia.


The road to success was paved with hard work and dedication. Six months before our expedition, we began group training walks. We started with shorter distances and gradually incorporated more challenging terrain, including hills over greater distances. It wasn't just about physical preparation; it was about building a strong bond as a team.


But we didn't embark on this journey alone. Behind the scenes, we had a dedicated support crew of three remarkable individuals: Daksha, Jacqui, and Steve. Their unwavering support was our pillar of strength throughout the entire endeavor. Daksha, in particular, had her own personal motivation. She joined our support crew as we attempted to conquer the three peaks in just 24 hours, a feat that demanded as much endurance from our support team as it did from the hikers.


Among our team, Dilip stood out as a beacon of inspiration. He undertook this grueling challenge with a heart full of compassion, knowing that every step he took was in support of Dementia UK. We were all united by a common purpose, and Dilip's dedication exemplified the spirit of our cause.


The enormity of our challenge was not lost on us, but we persevered. The collective effort of our team, the support crew, and the generous donations from friends, family, and well-wishers allowed us to raise over £3,000 for Dementia UK. This was more than just a fundraising achievement; it was a testament to the power of unity and the determination to make a difference.


As we stood atop those three peaks, the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. We knew that our journey had not only raised funds but also shed light on the importance of supporting those affected by dementia. It was a tribute to my dad and to all individuals and families dealing with this challenging condition.


I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to every member of our team, our support crew, and everyone who supported us along the way. Together, we proved that with determination and a common goal, we can conquer mountains and memories.



Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey for Dementia UK.



Let's come together to celebrate our incredible cumulative fundraising successes at the

3-4-1 Charity Ball! Join us on Saturday, 2nd December at the Queen Elizabeth Hall for a night of celebration, gratitude, and making a difference. Tickets are on sale now, and we can't wait to share this memorable evening with all of you!




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