THE START-LINE (Intro Part 1)
In his late 60s, Alan is representing his country for the first time – in a marathon. Opens Part 1 of The Marathon Years.
The Diagnosis
Bad news — it’s a dementia diagnosis. But who for?
Directions
Lena outwits the Saudi religious police. Alan plays a cruel trick.
Cream and Marshmallows
That dementia diagnosis. Perhaps not a death sentence but a life challenge.
Learning the Ropes
People think Alan’s a care natural. How little they know!
Preface to ‘The Marathon Years’
Why this book? Why the title? And who are these people in love?
Freedom
How will I use my new freedom? Will I make it back to a place in the sun?
Late for her own funeral
No funeral, we said. A celebration of Lena’s life. But she almost doesn’t make it.
GOING WELL (Intro Part 3)
Settling in nicely in the first half of the marathon. Opening Part 3 of ‘The Marathon Years’
Sharing the present
Dementia made it difficult to share the past with Lena. But sharing the present was still precious.