As a pre-50 personal challenge I will be attempting my first (and, I confidently predict, only) marathon. So, on 15th September, I will be taking part in the Richmond Running Festival Marathon - carefully selected as the flattest one available!

In order to give me additional motivation and to help a very worthy cause I will be raising money for Parkinson's UK in memory of Dad. Any contribution would be very gratefully received.  

Is there no way I can convey how I am trapped, strapped, scrapped

by this disease? Up to my knees in clinging mud, strength sapped,

my muscles seize, I writhe or freeze. I've lost the knack of tasks

I once relied upon. Tongue tied, my face set in a mask...

 ...I did not know I'd grow so slow to wash, to dress, or eat,

that open doors would make me pause while floors drag at my feet.

I beat retreats from crowded streets, seek friends or solitude.

At the day's end I cannot mend; what's left is attitude.

         from "That good night" by Duncan Gardiner