This challenge has just taken on an addituonal dimension as my dear mother passed away this week, having been under the influence of this terrible illness in the latter part of her life. Please donate, small and big contributions are gratefully received.

Last year, funds were raised for Dementia UK, a cause that deeply resonates with myself and our community in finance and elsewhere, especially the younger generation. Last year's fundraising effort was a remarkable success, with the Deutsche Bank team raising over GBP 40,000. We embarked on a challenging 600km bike ride through Italy, enduring scorching temperatures and relentless headwinds, all fuelled by nothing but pasta and brunello!

This year, we continue to support Dementia UK, an organization dedicated to ensuring that no one faces dementia alone. The impact of this illness is profoundly personal and scares the living daylights out of me, having witnessed its effects firsthand as a child. It's a haunting memory that drives my commitment to raising awareness and funding for this cause. Dementia not only affects the patients but also takes a toll on their families and friends, particularly their life partners who witness the gradual decline and withering away. No one should endure this journey without the necessary support; no one should face it alone.

Despite initial hesitation, I've chosen to participate in this year's fundraising effort because I believe in the importance of this cause. I am prepared to make significant personal sacrifices (caveat below!) as I embark on a challenging 600km cycling journey through Slovenia, one a few places I have never been alongside dedicated colleagues. I am assured the Slovenia is a melting pot of the best of Europe, that includes some pretty epic mountain passes.

Deutsche Bank will generously match your donations 1:1, and JustGiving ensures that your contribution goes directly to Dementia UK while reclaiming Gift Aid if you are a UK taxpayer—making your donation even more impactful. Even small donations are immensely appreciated.

And remember, cycling greatly improves your mental and physical well being. It contributes to cardiac health while research also shows that your cognitive skillset improves as does your social aptitude and network given you are spending hours on the road together.

#hardworkistheonlywork

For more information, see below or press the Give Now link above to contribute