Coastal trek is inspired by wife
The pensioner was inspired to do the walk by his wife, Diane, who has suffered from Alzheimer's for three years.
John, 68, wanted to raise funds to help with developing an early diagnosis of the disease, which affects hundreds of thousands of people nationwide.
He was accompanied by his daughter, Claire Monaghan, and they began at the Imperial Hotel, Torquay. From there the two of them took in Torre Abbey Sands, Paignton harbour, Broadsands, Churston golf course and Fishcombe in Brixham, before finishing at the William of Orange statue.
John said: “It's a tough route. After Goodrington there's a lot of climbs, but the South Devon coast is beautiful, and there was a breeze, which was nice.
“I thought I needed to do something, and when I decided to do the walk it seemed to spiral from there.
“Knowing that you're raising money for a good cause helps you along, and we actually enjoyed it. I think this walk could be a prototype for walks in future years. The Alzheimer's Society doesn't get much money, so I wanted to do my bit. It's not until you live with someone who suffers from dementia that you really know what's involved.”
When John completed the walk, staff from Eclipse Lodge in Torquay, where Diane receives day care treatment, took him and Claire for a celebration party.
Hazel Weaver, care manager at Eclipse Lodge, said: “They did really well. John's quite a fit man for his age and he wants to make this an annual event.
“It must have been quite tough-going.”
Anyone wanting to contribute to John's fundraising can call him on 01803 294552 or the Eclipse Lodge on 01803 607604.
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