April 2006, at a conference, a colleague (thank you Ian Newcombe!) persuaded me to go on a 3 mile 'fun run'.  It was anything but fun.  If one other person had dropped out I would have joined them.  But no-one did and I therefore struggled to the end.  To make matters worse Ian took this photo when I eventually finished.  Not a pretty sight and certainly not one for the under-aged or those of a gentle disposition!

Those of you who have passed the magic 40 will understand the angst that then kicked in.  Clearly my decline was advanced and the future looked bleak.

From that despair came some gentle 1 to 2 mile jogging.  And it wasn't too bad.  So confidence set in.  Such confidence.  I was barely at 4 miles when I started mentioning the 2007 London Marathon.  How my friends laughed.

The trouble is, when you start making rash promises others have great fun remembering them and reminding you about them.  And so it is, nearly one year later, I have a place in the Flora London Marathon!  And whilst the one-legged pensioner in the lion-suit may well overtake me, I fully intend to complete the race!

If I was going to put myself through the pain, and believe me there is considerable pain,  - from knackered knees to blackened toe-nails - I wanted to do it for a good cause.  Or better still, a great cause.

My father-in-law, Peter Mills, spent his last days at St Luke's Hospice.  This was the first time that I had seen the work of a hospice close-up.  It was hugely impressive.  The care and support given, both to the patient and to the patient's family, was invaluable.  In a world that is increasingly self-centred it is a joy to see how selfless, dedicated staff and volunteers make a place very special.  I was touched by St Luke's and the money I am raising will help keep me going as I pass each mile-marker.

So let me cut to the chase!  Please will you sponsor me?  Your money will go to a wonderful cause and I will have no excuse but to turn up on the day and, like Forrest Gump, just keep running!

Thank you,

Richard (Alberg)

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: St Luke's Hospice (Kenton Grange) will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.