A letter to... My cheerleader
DearMum,
Growing up with you as our mum was a true adventure. Despite having your hands full with two children, you never let us feel anything but loved.
From taking us to Scouts and swimming lessons, to cooking up delicious dinners every night, you were always there.
I was 10 when you got me a pony on loan.
Together we’d get up early every morning and go to the stables before school.
‘Shhh,’ you’d whisper, sneaking me a hot chocolate for the car.
I cherished those moments.
Along with our camping holidays all over France.
You loved travel and time with the family, and we’d play games, soak up the sun, even earn swimming badges.
‘I knew you could do it,’ you’d cheer the loudest.
Then, when I was 21, our happy family life was shattered when Dad suddenly passed away, age 56.
Your strength got us through.
‘We’ve got each other,’ you’d say.
I thought you were invincible, Mum.
Then in August 2017, you started to forget things we’d spoken about, like what I was up to at the weekend. It wasn’t like you.
One time, you forgot to ask me about an important doctor’s appointment.
As a former school bursar, in charge of the finances, you’d always had a talent for numbers.
Yet lately you’d started struggling with spellings and managing money.
Worried, I took you to the doctors.
Then, after tests, in February 2018, you were given a possible diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.
More scans were needed. But you were scared, especially when a doctor cruelly warned you’d have no quality of life if you had Alzheimer’s.
It made you not want to find out more.
Yet, your symptoms progressed, so we sought help from a new specialist.
In November 2018, you underwent an MRI, along with more tests.
Finally in September 2019, at the Swandean Dementia and Assessment Unit you, aged 64, were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a form of dementia.
We were devastated. Prescribed drugs to help, you were determined to keep living your life.
Resilient as ever. Since your diagnosis, you’ve faced each day with courage and a smile. Your bravery inspired me to keep running.
I’d taken it up as a hobby in 2015, and it’s been a source of strength and solace ever since. I’ve run numerous half marathons in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK, raising £8,000.
I’ve completed two London Marathons, with you on the sidelines. ‘Come on, Layla,’ you screamed, still cheering the loudest.
You still love to travel. Not as far these days. Our upcoming trip to Padstow promises to be another chance to make cherished memories.
It’s so hard, watching you gradually slip away from us.
But your determination to raise awareness is incredible and together, we’ll keep fighting for a cure.
As a devoted grandmother to my three children, you inspire us with your zest for life.
Still enjoy horse riding, walking and teaching us to make the most of every moment.
Our rock, you’re not just an amazing mum, you’re my hero.
You’ve faced each day with courage and a smile
All my love, Layla
Layla Andrews, 39, Storrington
WALK FOR A CURE Alzheimer’s Research UK is working to revolutionise the way we treat, diagnose and prevent dementia. Sign up to a family-friendly Walk For A Cure 5k event this summer at alzheimers researchuk.org.