The Reason - Alzheimer's Australia
Pete's motivation to raise money for Alzheimer's research stems from his family's first hand experience of the disease. Sadly, the 'new epidemic' of dementia is currently affecting over 13.7 million people in Asia Pacific today, with 50-70% of these cases being caused by Alzheimer's disease. There will be 4.5 million new cases this year, and unless a cure or a vaccine can be found, the numbers are set to continue rising at an astonishing rate.
Dementia symptoms are not part of the normal aging process. In 2003, the cost of caring for these people was $60.4 billion in Asia Pacific. Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are progressive, degenerative and currently irreversible.
Alzheimer's Australia is investing heavily in research programs that form a crucial part of a larger world wide drive to find a cure for this cruel disease. Peter is aiming to raise in excess of $200,000 to support their endeavours.
Having the ability to raise this much money for charity means a huge amount to Peter, as this provides him with the opportunity to 'give something back' and really make a difference. His desire to succeed and complete the race is driven even harder by the fund raising potential of the project.John Schwarz, CEO of business intelligence company Business Objects, describes the project as follows:"I admire Peter for his single-minded commitment to solving the cause of Alzheimer's disease. While most of us are pleased to give a few dollars towards the charitable causes we support, Peter's commitment goes far deeper. He is putting up four months of his life, a huge outlay of effort and capital, and is taking a significant personal risk in completing the solo rowing trek across the Atlantic. He has my wishes for best luck, and a speedy and safe crossing."
More information can be found at the following sites:
www.alzheimers.org.au
www.dementianet.com.au
