Dementia in any form is a cruel disease . Our family has lived with its heartbreaking consequences in the past and we are doing so again. 

I am a wife, a mother to 3 fantastic adult sons ( ok- I admit bias) , a daughter - but I am also a doctor. I am a consultant in Palliative Medicine , privileged to work in a cancer centre with fantastic colleagues and inspirational patients. I qualified in medicine 32 years ago and in that time have seen amazing advances in cancer treatment through research.  

Dementia needs this same research focus to advance the understanding and develop possible treatments for this devastating set of diseases so that future generations have options both to lower their risk and for effective treatments.There are currently over half a million people in the U.K with a dementia diagnosis. This is projected to rise to a million in 2025 and 2 million in 2050.

So in order to raise money to support Alzheimer's Research UK , I entered the Etape Caledonia last December. An 85 mile cycle route with 2 significant hills. At the age of 54 and carrying more than a few extra kilograms, this  is without a doubt the biggest physical challenge I have ever embarked on.

 Since December I have been working very hard training on my bike indoors and out and trying to lose weight . I have had fantastic support on bike rides, bike training advice and coaching particularly from Archie ( friend and husband) , and Gordon ( friend and colleague) who are doing the Etape too . My pal Susan has been my weight loss mentor . And  loads of others have supported me with encouragement in a multitude of ways. For those who are interested have created a blog of my training efforts which can be found at 

http://allysagonsingetape2018.wordpress.com

So please , dig into your pocket if you can and support me as I try to make it round this 85 mile route !

Thanks so much

Ally xx