A WINNERSH mum and full time carer, will walk the Chilterns with her friend to raise money for Alzheimers Research UK.
Beverley Campbell and Alison Leavey will take part in The Chiltern 50 Ultra Challenge in a couple of months.
The route passes some of the area’s finest countryside, with rolling hills, nature reserves and panoramic views.
Starting at Henley-on-Thames, the pair will loop round the Chiltern Hills, skirting Nettlebed, Watlington, Shirburn, Ibstone, and Hambledon.
Beverley said: “ There will be lots of people walking for various different organisations.
“There is a shorter 25k route, but Alison and I are doing the full 50k walk.
“There are a few hills to climb, with the highest at around 950 metres, so I will need to do some preparation.
Beverley walks regularly with her daughter, Bonnie.
As Bonnie’s full time carer, she takes her out in her chair 10 miles daily.
“Every morning we stroll to Dinton Pastures,” Beverley said.
“It’s so lovely to get out and about, and to feel like you’re one with nature.”
Beverley is very keen to support Alzheimers Research UK.
“As a full time carer, I really understand the strain that people find themselves under when looking after a loved one,” she said.
“Alzheimers is a horrible disease, and is affecting more and more people, as well as those who look after them.
“I see friends of mine having to look after their parents as they get older.
“Families can face a huge amount of pressure.
“Until you are a carer, you don’t really know what it’s like.
“As a loved one’s health deteriorates, the person who looks after them isn’t able to do as much either.
“For me to take the whole day off to complete this walk is difficult to arrange.
“So I want our walk to shine a light on the challenges that carers face daily.”
Beverley hopes that her 50k challenge will not only raise awareness, but will help fund research into Alzheimers.
“It must be terrible to see a parent’s health deteriorating, especially at a time when you are growing older yourself, and hoping to retire.
“I hope that research into Alzheimers will discover ways to slow down the disease’s progress,” she said.
Beverley and Bonnie are often seen walking in the borough.
“Winnersh is a wonderful place to live, and I really feel that we are part of our village,” said Beverley.
“We’re quite noticeable, and friends of ours will often honk and wave as they drive past, when we’re out and about.
“It makes us feel very much a part of the community.
“Bonnie and I have had to receive because of her needs.
“So, doing this walk is my chance to give something back.”
Beverley and Alison will take the 50k challenge on Saturday, September 23.
Anyone wishing to support them can make a donation at: www.justgiving.com (search for Beverley’s Fundraiser for Alzheimers Research UK)
