THANK YOU

I've committed to running in the Royal Parks Half Marathon in 2026 to support Alzheimer's Research UK.

The cause is one close to my heart. Grandparents on both sides of my family have been diagnosed with it in the past. I’ve seen my grandpa stare down Alzheimer’s for the past couple of years and all the complications it can bring to every facet of a person’s daily life (mobility, relationships and nutrition). I’ve seen it reduce the size of his life (once a confident, jet-setting professor of economics) smaller and smaller until it’s no larger than a hesitant walk around the block (and without being able to smell my grandma’s flowers). It’s a bloody hard disease to live with and it affects over 982,000 people in the UK, and was the leading cause of death in the UK in 2024.

Alzheimer’s Research UK has been doing good work supporting global clinical and academic research focusing on finding a cure. It’s had some good success so far beyond academic bylines e.g. in supporting UCL’s Institute of Neurology to identify key risk genes like TREM2. Beyond research, they also have a wide range of support services to assist in preventing and diagnosing Alzheimer where possible, and to give hope to those with the condition as well as offering much needed support to their families.

You can read more about Alzheimer’s and the charity's work on their website. Their 2025 annual report is also available here.

There are so many good causes floating around so please don’t feel obliged to give at all. If you have the means and desire to do so, anything you can spare would be much appreciated.

Thanks very much for your support.

Alan