Southport entrepreneur Matt Byrom is running his first London Marathon for Alzheimer’s Society in honour of his mother-in-law Rose Tapper.
Speaking to Matt on this cold March morning after having been out at 5am to do a 12 mile run, it is clear to him that he is keen to take on this challenge due to experiencing first hand the devastation of dementia within the family.
You can support his fundraising appeal here:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/mattbyrom-london2025
Matt Byrom said:
“Alzheimer’s Society is a charity that means a great deal to me personally. Over the past nine years, I’ve seen the devastating impact that dementia can have on a family.
“My mother-in-law, Rose, was diagnosed with dementia only a few years after she retired from her job as a nurse in 2010 — a career she gave so much to and mostly in Southport where she was proud to be a recovery nurse.
“It’s heartbreaking to see how the disease has gradually taken her memories, her independence, and a part of who she is.
“Rose was fearless, assertive and a fabulous homemaker. She should be spending these years enjoying her retirement, travelling, and living life to the fullest but instead, dementia has slowly taken that freedom and joy away from her.
“Rose is still only 74. She’s active and physically well – She still enjoys going out and singing in the local memories are made choir, walking, and staying active — but her memory fades faster than we ever imagined.
“Conversations are forgotten almost as soon as they happen, familiar faces often feel unfamiliar, and the confident, sharp woman we all love now often feels confused, scared and unsure.”
Matt is inspired by his mother-in-law to run the London Marathon this April. He said:
“In 2024, we had to make the incredibly difficult decision to move Rose into a care home. Taking her out of her own home — the place she felt most safe and comfortable — it was heartbreaking.
“Every step of this journey brings more painful decisions, more change, and more grief.
“Dementia is an incredibly cruel disease — not just for the person living with it, but for everyone who loves them.
“There’s a deep sense of helplessness, and a grief that starts long before any final goodbye.”
Matt is keen to raise awareness and the funds will help with research and support services.
“Any donation, big or small, will mean the world to me and my family — and will help Alzheimer’s Society continue their vital work.
“I’ll be running this London Marathon with Rose at the forefront of my mind but also for those who are or have been affected by dementia.
“Thank you so much for your support.”
You can donate here:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/mattbyrom-london2025
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