Dementia nurse in Red Bull soapbox challenge team

A senior dementia research nurse will swap the lab for the racetrack as she takes on the Red Bull Soapbox Race 2026 for Alzheimer's Society's Forget Me Not Appeal.

Inês Rodrigues, 35, from Southampton is part of a four person team called "Statistically Significant", who will race their pipette shaped soapbox for the event in London.

She said: "Just being part of it and making it to the finish line will feel like a huge achievement."

All four teammates have personal connections to dementia, with family members who have lived or are living with the condition.

Rodrigues, based at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, said: "I've worked in dementia research for nearly 12 years as a research nurse, and it's something I feel incredibly passionate about. Being part of research that can improve the future for people affected by dementia is so meaningful.

"At the same time, like many people, dementia has touched our families too. That's why raising awareness and supporting charities like Alzheimer's Society is so important to us."

Dementia is the UK's biggest killer, with around one million people living with the condition.

Alzheimer's Society figures show that more than 147,000 in the south east of England are living with dementia, including 2,600 in Southampton.

One in three people born in the UK today will develop the condition in their lifetime.

While Senior Trials Manager Pedro and Lab Manager Steve take to the wheel, Rodrigues and Year 6 teacher Anne will be in the pit crew, helping push the soapbox and keep the team on track.

The Statistically Significant team has invited people to cheer them on and support their fundraising efforts as they race for a cause close to their hearts.

"Science moves us forward, but so does community," Inês added.

"By coming together, we can make a real difference for people affected by dementia."

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