Running for Alzheimer's charity fund
A Northampton mother-of-two, whose husband was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's aged just 36, will take part in the London Marathon next month to raise money for research into the disease.
Dione Priddy, aged 40, will attempt to complete the 26.2-mile course in the capital on April 25 in aid of the UK's leading dementia research charity, Alzheimer's Research Trust.
Her husband, Mark, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's four years ago, and it had a huge effect not only on his life, but also on his wife's and their daughters, Eleanor, aged 13, and Bethany, aged 11.
Dione said: "When Mark was diagnosed it was devastating for the whole family and especially difficult for our two daughters. Our world was turned upside down.
"Mark and I decided to make the best of everything while we could. We renewed our wedding vows, went on holiday, ran, cycled and tried to carry on living a normal life.
"But now, just a few years later, Mark is unable to walk, talk or do anything for himself, and he receives specialist care in a nursing home."
Dione has been training alongside her niece, Jessica Claringbold, aged 26, who will also compete in the marathon in six weeks' time in aid of Alzheimer's Research.
Targeting a time of around four hours, Dione initially set herself the challenge of raising 2,000 but, following an online interview with the BBC, her sponsorship is already approaching the 9,000 mark.
Dione said: "I've had people sponsor me who I've never spoken to before and who don't know me, but have been affected by this.
"Dementia affects so many families. Everyone you speak to either has a relative who has been diagnosed or knows someone else who has. It's a devastating illness which has no hope."
She added: "Mark and I met at a circuit training class so running the London Marathon seems very appropriate. The rigorous training has helped me a great deal, giving me something to focus on and knowing the money I raise will give hope to other people."
Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Research Trust, said: "Early onset Alzheimer's is rare and it is tragic Mark has been affected by this dreadful disease.
"More than 7,000 people in Northamptonshire are living with the daily reality of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. We can't thank Dione enough for all her efforts to raise money for the research we fund."
To sponsor Dione, call Sharon Manison at the Alzheimer's Research Trust on 01223 843899 or visit www.justgiving.co.uk/dione-priddy
To sponsor Jessica visit www. justgiving.com/Jessica-Claringbold
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Friday 10 February 2012
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