Team 'Forget Me Not' for AR UK

[p]We are competing in this year’s Devizes to Westminster International Canoe race to raise awareness and much needed funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK. Both crew members (Chris and Paul) have witnessed first-hand the cruel and devastating effects of Dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinsons. Their challenge is to paddle 125 miles in a Canadian Canoe or C2.[/p][p]The Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race starts in Devizes, Wiltshire, finishing just downstream of Westminster Bridge in central London, opposite the Houses of Parliament. The race has been held annually over the Easter Weekend since 1948 and this year is the 70th anniversary.[/p][p]The race is 125 miles long and has 77 portages. The first 52 miles are along the Kennet and Avon Canal to Reading, the next 55 miles are on the River Thames to Teddington. The final 17 mile section is on the tidal portion of the Thames. The race is a severe test of skill, physical and mental stamina and planning, with the unpredictable British weather adding a further challenge.[/p][p]Alzheimer’s Research UK is the UK’s leading dementia research charity, which firmly believes research can create a world free from the fear, harm and heartbreak of dementia. The charity powers world-class studies that give us the best chance of achieving this and beating dementia sooner. Its scientists’ ground breaking work focuses on prevention, treatment and cure. In the UK, more than 850,000 people are living with dementia, a number which is rising rapidly, as by 2025 dementia will affect over one million people in the UK. One in three children born today will die with dementia. There are currently no treatments to stop the diseases that cause dementia. Alzheimer’s Research UK’s mission is to bring about a life-changing dementia treatment by 2025.[/p][p]Every pound we raise will help power pioneering research that can make a difference to so many people's lives, perhaps even yours.[/p][p]Through Virgin Giving Money you can make your donation which will be quickly processed and passed to the Alzheimer's Research UK.[/p][p]After this year’s race we will be donating our C2 'Forget Me Not II' to the Henley Canoe Club to support their training program for endurance canoeing and would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to our main sponsor The Frog at Skirmett http://www.thefrogatskirmett.co.uk/ which is located near Henley on Thames.[/p][p]Thank you for your donation, it is very much appreciated and will assist both charities in making a real difference to people’s lives – now and in the future.[/p][p]Thank you from Team 'Forget Me Not'...[/p]