Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. I am raising money to help raise awareness and fund research into Lewy body disease, which is an extremely common, but little known, form of dementia. 

Lewy bodies are abnormal deposits inside brain cells, killing these cells and causing a significant deterioration of the functioning of the brain. Symptoms include loss of memory and concentration, confusion, hallucinations, depression and difficulties with balance and movement. 

All of these symptoms were exhibited by my father, Michael, who was diagnosed with the disease in 2012, having also been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease seven years earlier. Following several torrid years of struggle with dementia, during which time his mental state and physical condition deteriorated significantly, he passed away 18 months ago as a result of the disease.  

Little is known about why or how Lewy bodies work. There is no cure for the disease but it can be alleviated by certain drugs and non-medical treatments. The Lewy Body Society is doing invaluable work in raising awareness of the disease and in funding research into it, to ensure it can be better understood and managed. 

To help fund the society's efforts, at the ripe old age of "40-ish", I am taking part in my first marathon - in Paris on 5 April 2020. I am running with two seasoned professionals - Spencer Grant and Darren Gurner - who I'm hoping will (literally) carry me over the finish line. 

Anything that you're able to donate to help to combat this dreadful disease would be greatly appreciated - thank you.