Hello

Thank you to everyone who has given their support over the past months. I completed the marathon in 5 hours 2 minutes. As my training was interupted by a few minor injuries and then flu (OK, bad cold) I was delighted to get round without any major problems. Dublin is a very nice city and this was an excellently staged event - even the weather was great!

I was surprised and delighted to reach and then exceed my target of £1000. The money will go to the Alzheimer's Society - all I have to do now is go around all those who sponsored me offline...

Why did I do it? Some of you may know my father suffered and died from Alzheimer's Disease 3 years ago. It's a disease of the brain that causes memory loss, personality changes and physical disability. It gradually robs a loved one of their memory, perception and ability to communicate. It is a very cruel disease, especially to those who are close to the sufferer.

The care for those with Alzheimer's Disease largely rests with families. My mother struggled with the physical and emotional demands of caring for someone gradually being stripped of his personality and ability to look after himself. She benefited from the help and support of the Alzheimer's Society. It provides helplines and support for carers, runs quality day and home care, funds medical and scientific research and gives financial help to families in need. It campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of all aspects of dementia.

So your money, and my suffering, will go to a worthwhile cause. Its not too late if you want to sponsor me if you have yet to do so (if you don't want to use justgiving, contact me at d.a.rogers@bigfoot.com)

Again, many thanks to everyone who sponsored me.

David