Some of you will know my dad passed away in 2017 having suffered with dementia for several years. Seeing this dreadful condition close up I decided then that given the opportunity in the future I would try and raise awareness and hopefully come to understand dementia a little better.

Fast forward to January 2023 and an advert in the Helensburgh Advertiser asking for volunteers for Dogs for Good. At the time I had no idea what or who this charity was, however after several emails and phone calls all was explained.

Dogs for Good https://www.dogsforgood.org/how-we-help/ are a charity that provide and train dogs not only for people with dementia but a range of other life changing illnesses.

Dementia dog https://dementiadog.org/how-we-help/ is a collaboration between Alzheimer’s Scotland and Dogs For Good that provide trained dogs and handlers for a variety of situations supporting people with dementia within the community.

Having taken delivery of a new wild Springer Spaniel named “Betty” only a few months earlier I thought “This is something I would love to do” so I volunteered. I must admit when I spoke to the local trainer for the first time and explained I had a 12 month Springer and wished to volunteer she was a little suppressed but more than happy to give it a go.

After weeks of training and hundred probably thousands of treats the assessment day arrived. I must say Betty was on her best behaviour, no pulling on the lead and sitting when asked and everything went according to plan. A few words from the assessors and she had done it. Betty had become a Dog For Good and was presented with her very own bandana and certificate.

For the last year Betty and I have been visiting the dementia centre in Helensburgh and meeting people who suffer from this dreadful condition. Seeing the pleasure that Betty brings to them and stories that they share makes every visit so worthwhile. At present there are only 3 dogs at the centre and at present Dogs for Good would love more volunteers.

This brings me on to my challenge LEJOG or Lands end to John O Groats. I’ll be travelling down to Lands end on the 19th May 24 and starting my 1080mile journey on the 21st May 24 riding from South to North all unsupported apart from a couple of hotels I intend to camp for the majority of the time carrying everything by bike. Hopefully I will complete the route around about the 15th June 24 raising a few pounds along the way.

So if you would like to donate either now or after I’ve completed the ride I will be most grateful. You can see how and what progress I’m making on my instergram page whiskys_lejog I’ll try and update daily hopefully with a few pictures and video clips to keep you entertained.

Thanks for your support

Whisky