August 20, 2018 9.35 am This story is over 76 months old

Man’s mission to fight dementia in wife’s memory

He has been recognised for his dedicated support
Steve made it his mission to complete his wife's bucket list.

Steve Boryszczuk got married to his wife at 16-years-old and planned to travel the world with her before Michelle was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at 38-years-old.

Just five years later, Michelle passed away from the disease and Steve made it his mission to both raise awareness of early-onset dementia and to tick off every item on his wife’s bucket list.

Michelle loved to walk, so her bucket list included a lot of long treks.

Since Michelle died at just 43-years-old, Steve has taken on the Great Wall of China, Hadrian’s Wall, a coast to coat trip of Costa Rica and many more feats – all of which were in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK.

The couple got married at 16-years-old.

Steve Boryszczuk, who also heads up the Market Rasen Fundraising Group for the charity, said: “When I first saw Michelle I just knew she was the one for me, it was love at first sight.

“I miss her every day, and I just hope my fundraising for Alzheimer’s Research UK can help us get one step closer to finding a cure, so no one has to go through what we went through as a family.

“It has meant so much to me to be able to tick off all of the places on her bucket list while raising money for the charity at the same time.”

For his dedicated support, Steve has been made a Champion of Alzheimer’s Research UK. He joins a group of 50 people that have been recognised for their support.

Steve has travelled the world to raise awareness of the disease.

After learning of the award, Steve added: “It is an honour and a privilege to be recognised as an Alzheimer’s Research UK Champion.

“I will continue raising funds for research and talking about my experience, so more people know about dementia and the diseases that cause it.”

Hilary Evans, chief executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “Steve has shown such bravery by sharing his experience of dementia and also completing his wife’s bucket list.

“By sharing his and Michelle’s story, he empowers others to discuss dementia with their loved ones, possibly get a diagnosis and even inspires people to raise vital funds for research to tackle the diseases that cause dementia.

“He is an outstanding ambassador for the charity.”

For more information about Alzheimer’s Research UK, or to find out more about fundraising for the charity, call 0300 111 5555 or visit their website.