If you'd have asked me 1 year ago whether running a marathon was on the radar...absolutely not! Fast forward to January 2025, and I'm about to embark on a 15 week training plan for the Manchester Marathon, taking place on Sunday 27th April 2025.

Why bother, I hear you say...

Firstly, I've actually turned into one of those people that enjoys running. Although I've not run beyond half marathon distance so far, I'm strangely looking forward to the training.

But the only thing that matters over the next 15 weeks is why I'm running this race. I'm honoured to be running to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society. Let me tell you why...

Alzheimer’s Society Mission: we’re working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.

The word "devastates" is clearly apt. Another one could be "cruel". Alzheimer's, or any form of dementia, is one of the cruellest diseases a family could battle with. I could explain why, but I would ask you to take 90 seconds to watch this video...

The cruellest part of it all is that this horrible disease has impacted our family in recent years. My Father-in-law, Mason, was unfortunately diagnosed with Alzheimer's in July 2021 at the age of 65. Over the past 3.5 years, we've witnessed Mason's deterioration and how the disease has robbed an otherwise healthy man of many more years with his children and grandchildren.

The reason I find the word "cruel" so appropriate is due to the impact the disease has on the family. As Alzheimer's progresses, the person suffering becomes less aware of their situation. But the awareness for the family continues to peak. In this case, Oliver, Anna and Sadie are watching their hero lose his superpowers. Life has dealt these three a difficult set of cards over the past 12 years and their strength, resilience and togetherness is truly incredible.

Back to your question...why bother? I hope it's now clear.

I will run for Mason, Oliver, Anna & Sadie.

Thank you for your donations & support!

David