Dementia diagnosis inspires marathon mission as Mayo prepares to back FTD brothers
Jordan Adams' Castlebar stop is expected to rally support for his 32 marathons in 32 days challenge
An extraordinary endurance challenge inspired by personal loss and determination is set to pass through Mayo this weekend (Saturday, May 9), as the “FTD Brothers” take on a marathon in every county in Ireland.
Jordan Adams, who has been diagnosed with early-onset frontotemporal dementia (FTD), is undertaking the remarkable challenge just one day after completing the London Marathon while carrying a 25kg fridge on his back.
The 32-day challenge will see Jordan run 26.2 miles every day across all 32 counties, pushing his physical and mental limits while raising awareness of the condition that claimed his mother’s life at just 52.
FTD is a rare form of dementia that typically affects people under 65 and can have devastating effects on families. Jordan, facing the same diagnosis as his mother, said he chose to respond with action.
“Losing my mum the way I did changed everything,” he said. “Now being diagnosed myself, I had a choice — and I chose to do something that shows life doesn’t stop here.”
He is undertaking the journey in memory of 12 relatives with Irish roots who also died from the disease.
The challenge will arrive in Castlebar on Saturday, May 9 where strong local support is expected.
Local MEP Nina Carberry has called on people across Mayo to come out and support the brothers as they pass through.
“The FTD Brothers are doing something incredible,” she said. “It’s important for everyone to get out and show their support on their journey.”
Jordan and his brother Cian Adams have already raised more than £1 million for their foundation and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, while shining a spotlight on dementia awareness and research.
MEP Carberry, who co-chairs the European Alzheimer’s Alliance, said their story highlights the urgent need for greater focus on dementia at European level, particularly as numbers are expected to rise sharply in the coming decades.
Estimates suggest the number of people living with dementia in Ireland could more than double to over 140,000 by 2050.
As the brothers continue their journey across Ireland, they will be sharing updates online, giving supporters insight into both the physical strain and emotional motivation behind the challenge.
Funds raised through their GoFundMe campaign will support the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and the work of the FTD Brothers Foundation. Those who want to learn more about the FTD Brothers and support their challenge are invited to donate here.