The Life of Brian and Loki
Helping bring Brian’s assistance dog, Loki, home, through community, movement, and positive vibes.
Our Journey
When Brian was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s, our world changed overnight.
After years of uncertainty and fighting to be heard, having a diagnosis finally gave us something we hadn’t had in a long time... understanding.
It’s not easy to hear, but it brings a kind of power: the power to choose how we respond, and to start living again with purpose and focus.
Who Brian Is
Brian has always been someone who builds, not just with his hands, but with his heart.
From leaving school and starting an apprenticeship in sheet metal fabrication, he went on to run his own business for over 20 years. His work was about more than the craft; it was about sharing knowledge. The best part of his job was training and mentoring apprentices and younger engineers, helping them grow their skills and confidence.
He’s always been the one people turned to, the ultimate provider for our family, with an open door for anyone who needed a listening ear, a bit of advice, or a helping hand.
Outside of work, Brian’s always been full of life — he loves music and dancing, and is known for being the first on the dance floor (and usually the last one off!).
He’s also a lifelong Liverpool FC supporter (sshh… don’t tell Bradford City!) and has found new friends and joy through Bradford City Walking Football, who have become an amazing source of support and laughter.
That’s what makes this journey so personal. Alzheimer’s doesn’t change who Brian is, it just means we need to find new ways to help him keep living with the same dignity, energy, and independence he’s always given others.
Why Loki
That’s where Loki comes in, a specially trained assistance dog who will help Brian with everyday tasks, provide reassurance during moments of confusion or anxiety, and offer companionship that keeps him connected to the world around him.
From their very first meeting, there was something special between them, a calm, natural bond full of trust and warmth.
Bringing Loki home full-time will make an incredible difference to Brian’s day-to-day life and our family as a whole.
How We’re Making It Happen
Loki’s training and support costs are significant, but with the help of our family, friends, and community, we’re finding creative ways to get there.
We’ve already raised half of the total through family contributions, and now we’re inviting others to get involved through ‘Miles for Loki’ and our community fundraising events and giveaways.
Miles for Loki: friends and family have set themselves the challenge of walking and cycling 100 miles (and counting!) to help fund Loki’s training. You can join in too, wherever you are, by setting your own distance goal and sharing your progress to spread awareness.
Community Fundraising & Giveaways: we’ve been gifted some brilliant vouchers and experiences to use in our fundraising activities, with all proceeds going toward Loki’s training. You can get involved by taking part, offering a prize, or even hosting your own small event to help raise funds.
We’re also so grateful to Bradford City Walking Football, Brian’s new tribe, who have kindly offered to support our fundraising efforts too. Their friendship, understanding, and humour have been a huge source of positivity for Brian, and a reminder that community truly makes the difference.
Every mile, every share, every small act of support brings us closer to Loki coming home — and helps raise awareness of young-onset Alzheimer’s and the incredible role assistance dogs can play.
Thank You
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of this journey.
Whether you walk, cycle, buy a ticket, donate, or simply share our story, you’re helping us make a life-changing difference for Brian and everyone who loves him.
Follow our updates and see Brian and Loki’s story unfold on Instagram: