A Geelong man has channelled his profound grief into an extraordinary physical tribute, running one kilometre for every year of his mother's life after she succumbed to early-onset dementia.
In a moving act of remembrance, Tom ran a gruelling 58 kilometres along the iconic Great Ocean Road. This poignant journey was for his mother, Jan, whose vibrant life was tragically cut short by the cruel disease. Jan was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease at just 58 years old and passed away in August 2023 at the age of 64.
A Daughter's Promise and a Son's Tribute
The seed for this remarkable tribute was planted by Tom's sister, Lucy. She had made a promise to their mother that she would walk 64 kilometres after her passing. Inspired by this, Tom decided to undertake his own challenge, choosing to run a kilometre for each year Jan lived.
The run started at 4:30 AM in the dark at Skenes Creek, with the physical endeavour mirroring the emotional marathon his family had endured. "It was a way to process the grief," Tom explained, highlighting how the physical pain of the run became a metaphor for the long, difficult journey of caring for a loved one with dementia.
The Long Road of Care and Loss
Jan's story is a heartbreakingly familiar one for many Australian families. Her decline was rapid after her diagnosis. The once independent and lively woman eventually required 24-hour care, a responsibility that fell heavily on her family. Tom shared vivid, painful memories of the disease's progression, from his mother forgetting how to use a knife and fork to the devastating moment she no longer recognised her own husband.
Her final years were spent in a nursing home, a necessity that came far too early in life. "She was the youngest person in the nursing home by about 20 years," Tom recalled, underscoring the particular cruelty of early-onset dementia. The family's loss is compounded by the feeling that Jan was robbed of decades of life she should have enjoyed.
Turning Pain into Purpose for a Cause
Tom's run was far more than a personal memorial. He used the challenge to raise vital funds and awareness for Dementia Australia, a leading support and research organisation. Through his efforts, he has already raised thousands of dollars to help other families facing the same battle.
"If I can raise money and awareness, then some good can come out of a pretty rubbish situation," Tom stated. His message is one of urging others to seek support early. He emphasises that no one should navigate the dementia journey alone and that organisations like Dementia Australia provide a crucial lifeline.
The run itself culminated at the Geelong Waterfront, a place of local significance. While exhausted, Tom was met by family and friends, completing his tribute surrounded by love. His story is a powerful testament to a son's love and a stark reminder of the devastating impact of early-onset dementia on Australian families. It highlights the urgent need for continued research, support services, and public understanding of this disease.
