“Nan’s strength and resilience will carry me through the race”

Evie loves running, whether by herself or with friends. She’s completed three half marathon races and has decided to challenge herself to run a full marathon this year – the Chester Marathon.

We caught up with Evie to learn more about her motivations for running the Chester Marathon for Dementia UK and what she’s most looking forward to about race day.

What is your connection to dementia?

My nan lived with vascular dementia for most of my childhood, but she didn’t get a diagnosis until July 2022.

Nan was a funny, cheeky and caring person. She always asked what I was up to and wanted the best for me in school and my career. She loved the simple things in life – having family around her, pottering around the garden and enjoying a cup of tea in the sunshine.

We first noticed that Nan would forget small things or misplace items. She then started forgetting people’s names, things we had told her and what she had eaten or done that day.

My mum was Nan’s main carer for many years, with help from me and other family members. For some time, she lived at home but as her dementia worsened, we became increasingly worried. Nan sometimes hurt herself going up and down the stairs and started doing potentially dangerous things, like putting cheese in the toaster.

So, in January 2025 Nan moved into a care home. This was challenging for her – she declined very quickly, became disoriented and felt very down. She eventually became unable to eat and drink, and sadly passed away in May 2025.

Why did you decide to run the Chester Marathon for Dementia UK?

I’m excited to run a full marathon in Nan’s honour. I loved showing her my medals and photos from the half marathons I ran and imagined being able to show her the medal after running the Chester Marathon. But sadly, life had other plans.

Nan was my best friend and biggest cheerleader. Dementia affected our lives, but she was the strongest lady, and I want to carry her resilience with me when running this marathon.

Dementia UK is an amazing charity supporting families affected by dementia through such a difficult time. It’s a fantastic opportunity to fundraise for a cause which means so much to me.

How is marathon training going so far?

Training is going well. One of my recent training runs was the full marathon distance, 26.2 miles, and it felt really good.

I like to be overprepared, and while running this distance in training isn’t necessary, I’m proud that I can do it.

What are you most looking forward to about marathon day?

Marathon day will probably be quite emotional, especially after all the hard work that I have put into training. But carrying Nan’s strength and resilience throughout the race will feel really special.

I know that she will be watching and cheering me on every step of the way. I wish she could be there at the end, but I just hope that she is proud of me.