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I have been talking about doing a marathon for the last few years. Talking definitely being the operative word, until earlier this year when I decided I should actually apply for a place. For those of you who have known me for a long time this might come as a surprise. I definitely haven’t always been the running type. Some memories that help to illustrate my point include coming last in the 800 metres in my final year at school, much to the amusement of my friends. Then at about 18 I embarked on a run with my boyfriend at the time. Unfortunately the difference in fitness levels meant I was left (slightly) behind and eventually I needed to be picked up in his car and driven home. A story made all the more embarrassing by the fact that the proposed run was only about a mile long. Despite my slow start to running (and exercise in general) I now love it and want a new challenge. I am sure anyone who has met me will also understand just how excited I am about all the food I will get to eat over the next few months. Obviously all in the name of successful training!!

On a more serious note, I will be running the London Marathon for the Alzheimer's Society, a cause which is very close to my heart. After having some personal experience with dementia when I was younger and not quite understanding what was happening to my Gran, I have spent quite a few years trying to find out more and now work with people with dementia. I would imagine like me that most people reading this will know someone with dementia and may have seen the effect dementia can have on a person, their family and friends. It is a progressive disease, which at the moment has no cure, although some medication is available to slow it’s progression.

The Alzheimer's Society supports many different people nationwide who have been affected by dementia. This includes support over the phone, internet and outreach to people’s homes, as well as research studies and work with the government to promote dementia awareness. With support from the Alzheimer's Society people are able to ‘live well’ with dementia for many years.

For these reasons I wanted to complete my marathon for the Alzheimer's Society. It truly is an amazing charity and I am unable to capture here just how much wonderful work it does for people.

So please dig deep and donate now.