We are walking in memory of my mother, Nuwaiza Hasheem. She was diagnosed with early-onset frontotemporal dementia in her late 50s and passed away in 2023. Her 16-year journey with progressive dementia deeply affected all who loved her and showed us the importance of greater awareness, compassion, and strong support systems for families facing this illness.

Our family experienced much of this journey in Sri Lanka, and I will always be grateful to my brother, who was her primary caregiver there. His dedication and commitment ensured that she was cared for with love and dignity throughout her illness.

We join this walk to honour my mother’s memory, to raise awareness, and to support other families navigating dementia. My mother was a thoughtful and caring person, and I believe she would have wanted her experience to help others and make their own journey a little easier."