On April 27th 2025, Ross Paterson, Kieran Killen and Scott McLachlan will be taking on the challenge of the Manchester marathon. 26.2 gruelling miles all in the name of fundraising for two great causes. Have a look below to see some facts and stats as to why fundraising for these causes is so important.

Alzheimer's Society is transforming the landscape of dementia forever.

Until the day we find a cure, we will create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.

See some quick facts below about how dementia can affect individuals:

Prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease:

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting approximately 850,000 people in the UK alone.

This number is expected to rise to over 1 million by 2025.

Global Impact:

Globally, around 55 million people are living with dementia, and the number is expected to grow to 139 million by 2050 due to aging populations.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's:

Alzheimer's disease primarily affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It usually starts with mild memory loss and confusion but gradually leads to severe cognitive impairment and loss of independence.

Research and Funding:

Alzheimer's UK is at the forefront of research to find treatments and ultimately a cure for Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. However, research funding remains critically underfunded compared to other diseases.

The Cost of Dementia:

Dementia is one of the most significant health challenges facing society. It costs the UK economy more than £26 billion a year, which is more than cancer and heart disease combined.

Why Support is Needed:

Despite advancements in care, there is still no cure for Alzheimer's disease, and many families face a lack of support. Alzheimer's UK provides vital resources for both individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

The Importance of Exercise:

Physical activity, like marathon running, is known to have benefits for brain health. Some studies suggest regular exercise may reduce the risk of dementia or slow its progression.

Cancer Research UK:

1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, and research is essential to improving survival rates and finding better treatments.

Cancer Research UK funds over 50% of the UK’s cancer research. By supporting them, you're contributing to the development of innovative treatments and better understanding of cancer.

In the 1970s, just 1 in 4 people survived cancer for 10 years or more. Today, 2 in 4 people survive, thanks to advances made possible by research.

Cancer Research UK’s work has helped double survival rates over the past 40 years. They are on a mission to accelerate progress, aiming for 3 in 4 people surviving cancer by 2034.

Your donation can help fund life-saving research. Just £10 can pay for a day's worth of lab supplies, £25 can fund an hour of research, and £100 can support a scientist for an entire day in the lab.

Cancer research is essential for early detection. More than half of cancer cases are now diagnosed at an earlier stage, which makes treatment more effective and survival rates higher.

Over 200 types of cancer exist. Each has its own challenges and treatment requirements, and ongoing research helps address these unique needs.

Your support helps researchers develop new treatments for cancers with poor survival rates. Donations support areas like childhood cancers, brain tumors, and rare cancers that often lack adequate funding.

These facts can really emphasize why your marathon is so important, and help inspire donations for Cancer Research UK!