As you can see I will be taking part in the BUPA Great North Run on October 5th 2008. It will be the first time I have attempted it (so who knows what will happen!)

I'm going to be running for Alzheimer's Society, a cause close to me and my family. Its amazing how many people have been affected by Alzheimer's in one way or another and the money raised will help the Society continue the excellent support it offers to both sufferers of the disease and those close to them.

A few facts about Alzheimer's and dementia (lovingly stolen from Alzheimer's Society's website)

- Over 700,000 people have some form of dementia. More than half of these people have Alzheimer's disease

- In less than 20 years, over one million people will have dementia, soaring to 1.7 million people in 2050.

-Dementia affects millions of families as 1 in 3 older people will end their life with a form of dementia.

- There are 15,000 younger people with dementia in the UK.

Funds raised will help the Alzheimer's Society continue to provide information and support people with all forms of dementia, as well as those who care for them; run quality care services; fund research into the cause, cure and care of dementia and advise professionals working in the field of dementia.

Of course there is also the fact that I'll be running a 13 mile race, if further motivation is needed. Anyone who has ever taken part in any form of sport with me over the years must find that at least a little entertaining!

Thanks

Alan

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Alzheimer's Society gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.