Justine Sanders, Dementia Friends Programme Delivery Manager, and Helen Jenkins, Digital and Marketing Manager, have both taken on Trek26. They explain why they chose to take on the challenge with their families.
Justine took part in Trek26 in 2024 in the Peak District: “I had seen Trek26 on an internal briefing and I thought it looked interesting, and it was the fact that I could do it with my whole family that appealed to me most. The four of us, myself, my husband, and my two teenage children who were 16 and 18 at the time, fancied doing a challenge together.
“On the day we had to get there quite early, I think we were in the half eight start, so we had to be there in plenty of time. We did get a breakfast of sausage baps, so that was good to start us off!
“My daughter and I visited the Forget Me Not Garden there and left a little message, which was lovely and a great poignant way to start the day.
“The whole day was fantastic. One highlight I would say were the enthusiasm and support of the volunteers. As you're walking along, you've got volunteers at every checkpoint basically clapping you for walking, which is a beautiful feeling, and handing out sweets if you need it, but just that enthusiasm to keep going was lovely to see.
“In the location we chose, there's one fantastic point where we walk along the field, you've got the river to your right and then you've got Chatsworth's house as you walk past. I've been to Chatsworth quite a few times but usually really close up to it. This was a beautiful view across the river in a gloriously sunny day as we're all just walking past in our T-shirts, all matching. That's the standout moment from the day for me.
“The other highlight and that really impressed all of us was when we got to the end and crossed the finish line, someone read out our names as we crossed, which was such a personal, lovely end of the day that was really appreciated.”
Helen Jenkins, Dementia Friends Digital and Marketing Manager, took part in Trek26 earlier this year in the Lake District with her husband.
Helen said: “I’ve always wanted to take on a walking challenge as I enjoy going on walks with my family. Since I joined the Society a few years ago I thought Trek26 looked like a great event and I wanted to raise money to support the work we do for people affected by dementia. It just so happened that this year the Lake District Trek26 event took place on mine and my husbands wedding anniversary, so I thought it would be a great way for us to celebrate that!”
“We signed up for the 13mile event and the organisation and communication from the Trek26 team was fantastic, with lots of encouragement and tips for fundraising and training beforehand. I also joined the dedicated Trek26 Lake District Facebook group which was really useful, as many people in the group had done the event before and gave some good recommendations on what to wear and take with you, plus more of what you can expect on the day.
“The Lake District trek was classed as a ‘tough’ walk and I have to agree that parts were tough, we had to navigate lots of rocks, trees and narrow paths but overall, it was a beautiful walk around one half of Ullswater lake with some stunning views to keep us going.
“It was a great experience from start to finish, all the team and volunteers were so friendly and supportive, encouraging everyone up those tough climbs. The lunch stop has to be a highlight, as there was such an array of food to choose from and even a Pick ‘N Mix to keep our energies up!
“Crossing the finish line and being greeted with a medal and a glass of prosecco was a fantastic way to finish off the challenge and then a good sit down to rest our aching legs!
“I would recommend taking part in Trek26, it was a fantastic, well organised challenge for a great cause, we’re even contemplating taking on the longer distance next time!”
Feeling inspired? Why not take on the Trek26 Jurassic Coast on 30th August 2025! Sign up here.
Or, register your interest for 2026 events here.
