In the early 90's my mother, Joan Leach, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's when in her mid fifties. She was courageous and strong throughout this terrible illness but eventually lost her fight, passing away in November 1997 at the young age of 62.

My father, Peter Leach, was her Carer during this difficult period and provided much love and affection as well as constant hands on care.

Now, at the age of 88, Dad has had to be moved into a residential Care Home, as he too has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

So we are in the 21st year since my mother's death and I will be 55 in July. I am teaming up with my great friend Eamonn Dunne, to cycle some 300 miles from Dublin across Ireland to the Southwest picturesque town of Dingle, which is Europe's nearest town to America, and where Eamonn's wife, Sharon, and her family all come from!

We decided upon the trip in early November, since which time I have undertaken over 40 training rides and covered over 1200 miles. It's been an experience with some crashes along the way, but the titanium knees have held up well and some weight has certainly dropped off!

I am confident we will be able to manage the trip over the planned 3 days from July 4th 2018. Also a 4th day once we reach there will be the 50 mile trip around Slae Head. Hopefully I can raise a decent amount of money to put towards helping sufferers of this terrible disease.

Any donation, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated. MANY THANKS FOR YOUR KINDNESS AND GENEROSITY.