THIS year I am running the London Marathon and in the process I am hoping to raise much needed awareness and funds for two worthy charities, Mind and The Alzheimer’s Society.

My nan was blessed with six children, 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren before she gave up her fight with Alzheimer’s and left us.

To all the grandchildren she was superwoman and a second mum, affectionately we all called her mumma – no-one called her nan.

She brought joy to all those around her, always there to lend a hand, the life and soul of every occasion - it was her amazing presence and grace which everyone fell in love with! Oh and did I mention how much she loved to cook and feed everyone?

Mumma started to ‘forget’ she couldn’t remember where she put her glasses, and then she forgot where she put her purse.

We all thought it was nothing (old age) and dismissed it.

Mumma started to forget more and more. We all tried to help her in our own way but I think we missed all the signs or didn’t want to accept that she could be suffering from dementia.

Eventually a diagnosis confirmed that she was suffering from Alzheimer’s – what is this? Everyone was confused and denied this could be happening.

It was with great reluctance we acknowledged that this beautiful, strong woman had a condition which will deteriorate over time and this time it was something we could not control. We felt helpless. This was hard, we were unprepared and unaware.

I think the work of Mind and the Alzheimer’s society is unprecedented – Mind is there for you every step of the way and will provide invaluable support and guidance to anyone suffering from stress, depression or a type of mental illness.

The Alzheimer’s Society is leading the way in how we care for those suffering with dementia and carry out vital research to find treatments and cures.

It is comforting to know that both charities aim to provide support, care, help, guidance and information when needed most. Sometimes it’s the simplest things like somewhere to turn to, a shoulder to cry on or to know someone is there who understands.

Raising awareness is also paramount, especially as most do not believe a loved can be suffering from a type of mental illness or could even be affected by dementia and simply put it down to stress or old age.

You can make a difference today by sending a FREE text to 70070 Quoting MANJ90 followed by 5 for a suggested minimum donation of £5 to http://uk.virginmoneygiving. com/ManjinderRaiyat.