82-year-old Alzheimer's survivor walks across England to raise awareness
Dr. Judy Benjamin, 82, begins a 650-mile trek from Land's End to London to raise awareness of Alzheimer's prevention and treatment.
Land's End, England – On August 1, 2026, 82-year-old Dr. Judy Benjamin will commence a challenging 650-mile walk from Land's End to London, aiming to become the first known survivor of Alzheimer's disease to complete a cross-country journey.
Benjamin intends to use her walk to spread a message of hope and information regarding the prevention and recovery from cognitive decline. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer's nearly 15 years ago but has since demonstrated that cognitive decline is not necessarily a terminal diagnosis and that life can continue meaningfully after such a diagnosis.
Throughout the journey, Benjamin will share her personal experience and highlight the importance of a personalized, precision medicine approach known as ReCODE. This protocol is supported by evidence suggesting that cognitive decline can be prevented and, in some cases, reversed through lifestyle interventions including nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
Benjamin's English trek follows her 2025 achievement of walking 2,790 miles across the United States, from California to Florida. This journey made her the first known person diagnosed with Alzheimer's to walk across America, sparking broader conversations about brain health and early intervention.
As the founder of the Alzheimer's Survivors Foundation, Benjamin advocates for individuals living with cognitive decline and amplifies stories of recovery. Her walk is supported by companies such as Apollo Health and LifeSeasons, both focusing on brain health and longevity.