This is my third time running the Flora London Marathon, and definitely my last ... for this year.  Training for a marathon doesn't get any easier; in fact, knowing what lies ahead makes it seem even more arduous, but still a good challenge.

Over the years I've gathered sponsorship for a number of different charities, depending what has touched or affected me, my family and friends.  This year I'm running for Alzheimer Scotland, who provide support to people with the disease and also their families.  Alzheimer's and dementia have both affected my close family over the years, and it's a very upsetting thing to deal with.  Supporting an organisation that looks to help with that seems right to do.

There is no known cure for Alzheimer's or dementia yet, but the best advice is to lead an active lifestyle and eat healthily.  My marathon training covers the first part, and Hazel's wonderful cooking the second.  I'd also like to thank Hazel for her support in general, and cycling out to meet me on my long Sunday runs even when the snow was blowing horizontally.

One final thought: you may not care much for the months of training, hundreds of miles run, hours spent in the wind & rain, hundreds spent on extra food or the perceived personal challenge of running a marathon so many people put on their 'things to do before I die' list.  In that case, I'd encourage you to think of the beers I've not sampled, bottles of wine that lay unopened and nights out that have been rather on the quiet side.  Now dig deep!

Now for the technical bit:

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Alzheimer Scotland will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.