Parisian Man Embarks on Epic 166km Run to Honor Mother’s Battle with Lewy Body Dementia – Urgent Update
Crozon Peninsula, France – In a powerful display of love and determination, Marc Simon, 50, from the Paris region, is preparing to tackle the Grand Raid du Finistère, a challenging 166km ultra-trail, starting September 19th. His mission? To shine a light on Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), a devastating neurocognitive disease impacting his mother, Régine, and countless others, and to raise vital funds for the A2MCL association.
A Silent Struggle: Understanding Lewy Body Dementia
“It’s a confusing disease,” Simon explains, echoing the sentiments of many families grappling with LBD. Often misdiagnosed or confused with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease – to which it is closely related – Lewy Body Dementia affects approximately 200,000 people in France alone. The disease manifests differently in each individual, but early symptoms often include loss of orientation, difficulty with conversation, challenges with future planning, and disturbing hallucinations. For Régine, now 78, the diagnosis came seven years ago, marking the beginning of a heartbreaking journey.
“Before the diagnosis, I had never heard of it,” Simon admits. “It was hard to accept. We did not know at all what was going to happen later.” Today, Régine’s condition has progressed, impacting her ability to walk and even her desire to eat. Her husband, Dominique, 76, provides unwavering care, a role that is becoming increasingly demanding.
From Playground to Purpose: The Significance of the Crozon Peninsula
The choice of the Grand Raid du Finistère isn’t arbitrary. The Crozon Peninsula holds a special place in the Simon family’s heart. “This trail is a way of doing honor to the daily fight of my parents but also to the Crozon peninsula,” Simon shares. “The GR34 has always been my playground.” He spent much of his childhood exploring the peninsula with his parents, making this ultra-trail a deeply personal tribute.
This isn’t Simon’s first foray into long-distance running. Ten years ago, he completed a 100km trail in the Alps, but this 166km race represents his most ambitious undertaking yet. He will proudly wear a banner displaying the A2MCL logo throughout the race, and has launched an online fundraising campaign to maximize support for the association.
Beyond the Finish Line: The Urgent Need for LBD Awareness
Simon’s efforts extend beyond fundraising. He emphasizes the critical need for increased awareness of Lewy Body Dementia. “We find it difficult to know what his level of consciousness is,” he says, describing the emotional toll of witnessing his mother’s decline. “Hence the importance…to inform about the disease, so as not to leave the caregivers lord.” Caregivers often feel isolated and overwhelmed, lacking the resources and understanding needed to navigate the complexities of LBD.
The A2MCL association plays a vital role in bridging this gap, providing support to both families and healthcare professionals. They offer education, resources, and a community for those affected by this challenging disease. Understanding LBD is crucial for early diagnosis, appropriate care, and ultimately, improving the quality of life for those living with the condition.
The Grand Raid du Finistère kicks off at 5 p.m. on Friday, September 19th, at the nautical center of Telgruc-sur-Mer. Marc Simon’s journey is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of those fighting for a better future for individuals and families impacted by Lewy Body Dementia. His dedication serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of immense challenges, hope and action can prevail.
To learn more about Lewy Body Dementia and support the A2MCL association, visit [Insert A2MCL Website Link Here]. Stay tuned to archyde.com for updates on Marc Simon’s progress and further coverage of this important story.
