Dementia Matron Takes on Mersey Tunnel 10K to Fund Hospital Care After Mum's Diagnosis
Jenine Kelly, a 41-year-old dementia matron at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, is preparing to run the Mersey Tunnel 10K to raise crucial funds for dementia patients, inspired by her mother's personal battle with the condition. Living in New Brighton, Jenine aims to support the Trust's WUTH Charity, which enhances care for individuals living with dementia across hospital settings.
A Personal Connection to Dementia
Jenine's mother, Mandy, was diagnosed with young-onset dementia in 2021 at just 59 years old. At the time of her diagnosis, Mandy was still actively working, driving, and engaging fully in the lives of her children and grandchildren. "We were very close," Jenine shared. "She was a nurse, a mum, and a nan who always put others first. Dementia was the last thing any of us expected."
The early symptoms were subtle and easily overlooked, including forgetfulness, behavioural changes, and difficulties with familiar tasks. Like many families, Jenine and her relatives struggled to accept that something serious might be wrong. "Even with my healthcare background, you never want to admit it," Jenine explained. "I kept thinking she was too young for this."
The Impact on Independence and Family
Following her diagnosis, Mandy gradually lost her independence, with giving up her driving licence being a particularly challenging milestone. "Driving meant freedom for her," Jenine said. "It allowed her to pick up the children and maintain her independence. Losing that was huge." Her condition deteriorated rapidly, and she now requires full-time care in the advanced stages of dementia.
Jenine emphasised that dementia affects entire families, not just the individual diagnosed. "You grieve for the person they were, while still caring for the person they are," she noted, highlighting the emotional toll on loved ones.
Professional and Personal Mission
With 23 years of service at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, Jenine works as the dementia matron, supporting patients and their families through similar challenges she has experienced firsthand. "I see families at the very beginning of their journey," she said. "They're frightened and overwhelmed, often without a single point of support. I wanted to be that person."
Funds raised from her 10K run will be dedicated entirely to improving dementia care within the hospital. Key initiatives include developing a dedicated dementia café—a quiet, low-stimulation space where patients and families can relax away from busy wards. "Hospital environments can be noisy and confusing," Jenine explained. "For someone with dementia, that can be frightening. A dementia café would provide a calm, familiar space for connection."
Enhancing Patient Care and Awareness
The fundraising will also support practical ward-based projects, such as dementia activity boxes designed to reduce anxiety and provide comfort during hospital stays. These resources help staff personalise care, promoting dignity and wellbeing. "Small things can make a huge difference," Jenine stated. "Having something familiar to focus on or a quiet space can reduce distress and humanise the hospital experience."
Janelle Holmes, chief executive at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, praised Jenine's efforts: "Jenine's fundraising is incredibly powerful because it comes from such a personal place. Her dual perspective as a daughter and nurse gives her deep insight into what families face. The funds will help us create calmer, more supportive environments for patients and families during difficult times."
Jenine hopes her campaign will also challenge public misconceptions about dementia. "It's still seen as something that only affects the very elderly," she said. "My mum was 59 when diagnosed. Dementia can affect anyone, at any age. We need more understanding, patience, and kindness."
All proceeds will benefit dementia patients and families at Arrowe Park and Clatterbridge hospitals through WUTH Charity, aiming to foster more dementia-friendly environments and improve care experiences.
