Brothers Run 33 Marathons Facing Inherited Dementia

Brothers Jordan and Cian Adams are tackling frontotemporal dementia (FTD) head-on, having recently completed 33 marathons in 33 days to raise awareness for the devastating genetic brain disease. Both brothers carry a rare gene mutation that makes developing FTD a near certainty, with symptoms expected to manifest in their mid-40s.

Their advocacy is deeply personal, driven by the memory of their mother, Geraldine, who died from FTD in 2016 at the age of 52. She was diagnosed six years prior and passed away at their home in Redditch. The brothers have confirmed the genetic mutation, while their elder sister, Kennedy, tested negative.

The "Irish Challenge," which saw them run a marathon in each of Ireland's 32 counties, garnered significant support, including appearances on national television and an invitation to meet with Irish government officials. In the UK, Prince William acknowledged their efforts, and they were subsequently invited to the Royal Box at Wimbledon.

Working with Alzheimer's groups in Britain and Ireland, the brothers have raised nearly 2 million pounds ($2.7 million). They emphasize the critical need for government support for services, aiming to ensure individuals with dementia and their families feel less isolated. Future plans include running the Chicago Marathon and leading a hike up Mount Kilimanjaro through their FTD Brothers Foundation.