Runner number 22,578
Well, it's London marathon weekend. All the training is behind me, all 438 miles. Now it comes down to 4 hours unrelenting effort, hopefully not too much more, to complete the 26.2 miles or 42 km. I'm trying for a personal best, so it's gonna hurt an awful lot in that last hour. Three years ago I ran my first marathon at London and had a disaster, the worst running experience of my life, so I have unfinished business on the London course. Of course it'll be personally satisfying to run well but the reason for all this effort is to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association and Alzheimer's Research UK.
On Friday, Christine and I traveled down to the Excel centre to collect my race number. It's a long day out but even an old cynic like me can't help but be swept up by the enthusiasm of the atmosphere (Christine might disagree with that statement). I also got the chance to meet one of my chosen charities, Alzheimer's Research UK, who were raising awareness and supporting their runners. While there has been such positive news this week regarding potential breakthroughs in the treatment of brain degenerative diseases such as dementia, there's still a huge amount of scientific research to do and funds that need raising.
Alzheimer's impacts so many families and is a devastating condition. Motor Neurone Disease, while rare, is the worst condition imaginable. Any sponsorship you can afford will hasten the day when an effective treatment or cure is found. Click the virgin money giving donation link at the top of the page.
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