BUTLER resident Glenn Monaghan has raised almost $3500 for Alzheimer’s WA in his first of two ultra marathons.
Mr Monaghan is preparing for the second, 350km Delirious W.E.S.T. (Western Endurance Scenic Trail) 200 Miler in February after doing the WTF (Waterous Trail on Foot) 100 mile run in September.
In the first event, he ran 160km in about 25 hours from Dwellingup to Jarrahdale and back, and the February run will follow the Bibbulmun Track from Northcliffe to Albany.
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READ NOWMr Monaghan was motivated to take part after his father-in-law Tony Reynolds, who lives with dementia, was put into full-time care about six months ago.
“When we were visiting Tony in May I decided I wanted to do something for Tony and others living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia,” he said.
“Lots of people in our city suffer from some form of dementia, which means it’s having a huge affect on lots of families.”
It was his first time doing the WTF 100 miler and he came in 14th with a time of 24 hours, 49 minutes and eight seconds.
“In February I will be running the 200 mile ultra marathon to raise more funds for Alzheimer’s WA, which is by far the toughest thing I’ve ever attempted.”
Alzheimer’s WA chief executive Rhonda Parker said funds raised through his marathon efforts would enable the organisation to continue to provide support services, education and social research.
“Ultra marathons are incredible tests of endurance,” she said.
“I not only admire Glenn’s athletic strength, but also his mental strength – 160km is a long way to run.
“There are parallels in a marathon to the dementia journey, as many families know.
“The dementia journey is often long and difficult.
“There’s more than 41,000 people living with dementia in WA and there is currently no cure.
“Glenn’s efforts raise much-needed funds, but also raise awareness to show people living with dementia and their families that together we can ensure no-one faces dementia alone.”
To donate, visit https://gogetfunding.com/run-for-dementia/.
For support, call 1300 66 77 88 or visit www.alzheimerswa.org.au.