A LESMURDIE primary school student has raised more than $10,000 for Dementia Australia after completing the HBF Run for a Reason in honour of his grandfather’s battle with vascular dementia.

Ten-year-old Xavier Foster, a Year 5 student at Walliston Primary School, raised $10,699 through his ‘Doing it for Pop’ campaign and finished as the top individual fundraiser for Dementia Australia and the third-highest individual fundraiser overall at this year’s event.

Xavier’s grandfather was diagnosed with vascular dementia three years ago and entered aged care earlier this year.

Despite the progression of the disease, Xavier’s mother Courtney Foster said her son remained determined to support his grandfather and help other families affected by dementia.

“Pop and I have always been good mates,” Xavier said.

Growing up he spent time with his grandfather on the family’s farm near New Norcia, helping with vegetable gardens, setting yabby traps and learning about life on the land.

As the pair’s relationship changed with his grandfather’s illness, Xavier decided to dedicate his fundraising efforts to him.

On race day, he started the 3km run with almost $9,600 already raised and hoped to reach the $10,000 milestone.

After crossing the finish line, he discovered an anonymous donor had contributed $600, pushing his fundraising total beyond his goal.

But rather than celebrate the achievement, his first thought was for his grandfather.

“Would this help Pop?” Xavier asked.

Mrs Foster said that moment summed up her son’s motivation throughout the campaign.

“What makes me most proud of Xavier is his genuine kindness and concern for the world around him,” she said.

“When he saw an opportunity to help, he didn't do it for recognition or praise – he simply wanted to make a difference.”

Xavier said the event was memorable not only because of the money raised but because of the people he met along the way.

“My favourite part about the event was seeing all the people running for someone special in their lives and seeing all the happy faces,” he said.

“Running for my Pop made it extra special to me.”

Mrs Foster said Xavier’s efforts showed how one person could make a meaningful difference.

“His desire to help others, simply because it was the right thing to do, is what makes me so incredibly proud,” she said.

“Demonstrating that with a big heart can make a big difference.”

Donations can still be made via Xavier’s fundraising page.