I walked 250 miles from Salzburg to get here! This 19th century romanticised bust of Mozart is in the Steffl department store in Vienna, occupying the space (though not the building) where he died.

Vienna was also the scene of some of Mozart's greatest successes. He was my inspiration for starting and running the Ambache Chamber Orchestra for 24 years, and the trip didn't disappoint. Jeremy has created a blog of it (including photos) at www.MozartandtheMicroscope.blogspot.com.

My other purpose was to raise money for the neurosurgeon thanks to whom I am alive. He will use £10,000 for a special teaching microscope at the Royal College of Surgeons where he is the neurosurgical tutor. The rest goes to ancillary equipment (not provided by the NHS) at The Royal London hospital where I was treated, in consultation with the nurses.

As you see, we are near our target! Our costs were met, so 100% of all donations will go to the Barts and The London charity.

I do hope you would be willing to contribute. £10 would be much appreciated, £100 would be excellent! The fund remains open until November 1st.

Diana Ambache