Ana Blease, 21, will take on her first marathon at the adidas Manchester Marathon using her wheelchair, while raising money for Alzheimer’s Society.

The University of Loughborough student aims to raise as much money as possible for the charity, while inspiring disabled individuals to get active.

Ana told us more about what motivates her, and why Alzheimer’s Society is an important cause in her life.

Words by Ana Blease.

My name is Ana Blease, and I am a wheelchair basketball player from North Wales. I currently train full time with the Loughborough Lightning Women’s wheelchair basketball premier league team and have loved the sport since I was 8 years old. Being born with Spina bifida, I believe disability should never be a barrier to remaining healthy and active.

By taking on the adidas Manchester Marathon, I aim to show that sporting challenges are possible for people with disabilities, while inspiring people to challenge themselves. I am also taking on the event to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society – a cause that is close to my heart.

My nan was the matriarch of our family. I have lovely memories of her cosy flat, where she would spoil me and cousins rotten with treats and toys. However, when I was around 8 years old, my nan was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Over the years she deteriorated and slowly lost her memory and speech, until she had to be moved to a care home. She passed away in March 2025, years after doctors expected her too, showing her strength.

I am supporting Alzheimer’s Society by taking part in the adidas Manchester Marathon. Alzheimer’s Society fund research and provide support to people living with dementia and their families.

Training for the event is going well; I have a half marathon in February which I am preparing for, and then the adidas Manchester Marathon will be the bigger challenge to focus on.

 Donations to my half marathon and adidas Manchester Marathon can be made using the link below.

Thank you, Ana, for sharing your story. We can wait to see you make your bucket-list challenge a reality in April!

Have you got your own place in the adidas Manchester Marathon? Join the Alzheimer’s Society team below.