Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

For those that know me I have always claimed to be a runner. My niche used to be running and jumping things (hurdles), but that didn't stop people assuming I meant I was a marathon runner. That made me scoff and laugh. The thought of running for more than 5 minutes used to terrify me.

Well, fast forward a few years and I have retired from running and jumping things, but still insist I am a runner. So whilst looking for a challenge, my bravado got the better of me and I proclaimed I could run the Ealing Half Marathon along with some of my colleagues from work. "No problem" was the phrase I used.

Well now that the event approaches I realise that I was mistaken. It has been a problem, and I feel compelled to take part in it for a worthy cause, otherwise I may just decide that a lie-in and a cup of tea beats the idea of running a distance that is more sensibly driven.

I am running for the Alzheimer's Society for a few reasons.

My girlfriend Claire has been dealing with the news her grandfather suffers from early onset Alzheimer's for the last year. Prior to that her grandmother also suffered from it. Mark up one reason to tie on the shoes and pull on the sweatband.

My mother also works at a residential care home, assisting with the care of elderly patients with dementia. Dementia affects 80% of those patients in residential homes, Alzheimer's is the most common form. I should point out that it also affects some 40,000 young people in the UK too. Mark up another reason to run, on go the headphones and the energy gels are prepped!

Finally I feel I must be perfectly honest, they asked.
There was a box on the registration form that asked if people were interested in running for them. Those that know me know that I cannot say no to things like that, so that was the final reason, on go the lucky running pants and tight shorts!

If you feel a particular connection to the Alzheimer's Society Charity and can spare a pound or two then it would be great if you could donate. I'd really appreciate it and I know that they would too.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.