On the 2nd October 2009, I shall be off to climb Kilimanjaro (the world's highest freestanding mountain at 5895m no less). It should take 8 days of hard slog with the worst day involving a 20km trek at -20C with a 7km vertical climb! 

Why, you may ask? Well two reasons. Firstly, it's my 50th year (no, it cannot be I hear you cry) and I felt like doing something daft. Secondly, and more importantly, it is a good excuse to raise money for two very worthwhile charities, the Alzheimer's Society and Tearfund. Why these two charities? Well my Father-in-law is suffering from Alzheimer's and Tearfund is a Christian Charity that works to eradicate poverty on a worldwide basis (and was my Mother's chosen charity).  

You are currently on the Alzheimer's page and any money given will go to the Alzheimer's Society (I have covered the cost of the trip so NO money goes on that). Please consider splitting your donation (or doubling it!) and contribute to Mark's Kilimanjaro Tearfund page too (www.justgiving/markmcdonnell1) as The Revenue requires one charity per page! 

I really appreciate you reading this far but now comes the fun part. Please dig deep and donate now.

Mark