73-year-old ex-footballer Don Shanks runs a marathon in New York: all proceeds to fight Alzheimer's.

Don Shanks sets off for the marathon in memory of Stan Bowles

According to The Sun: Don Shanks, former teammate of Stan Bowles at QPR, has decided to lace up his trainers for the marathon again after losing his friend to Alzheimer's disease last year.

This time he will run through the streets of New York on November 2, just two days after his 73rd birthday. Don has previously run the New York marathon and managed to raise £50,000 for Bowles' treatment.

Don Shanks and Stan Bowles were inseparable friends.

The iconic QPR team, which included Don Shanks and Stan Bowles.

Stan Bowles with QPR legends (left to right) John Hollins, Ian Gillard, Gerry Francis, Don Shanks, Don Givens and Ron Abbott.

Bowles, regarded as the greatest player in QPR's history, died in February 2024 after an 11-year battle with Alzheimer's disease, which has become the biggest killer in the country.

According to Alzheimer’s Society, by 2040 it is projected that 1.4 million people will live with this disease in the UK.

Shanks told Sun Sport: “Stan is gone, but dementia remains, and I promised that I would do everything I could to fight this terrible disease in his memory.”

“My previous marathon time was four hours 11 minutes, but I was 66 then, so this time I plan to run it in about six hours.”

Don is currently training for the race in Egypt, then heading to Tampa to meet another QPR legend - Rodney Marsh, before flying to New York.

He added: “I haven't drunk beer or eaten burgers for a month now, I know it will be tough, but it is a small price to pay since the work done by Alzheimer’s Society is vital in helping those suffering from this terrible disease.”

Shanks and Bowles were close friends both during and after their careers. Don admits that watching one of English football's great talents decline due to Alzheimer's has been incredibly hard.

“Stan gave everything to football.”

“He was my best friend, but it's not just about him, it's also for all the people in the country who don’t have such a profile and need help.”

“Alzheimer’s Society provides an immense amount of support to families facing dementia, and I hope to raise £100,000 — it’s ambitious, but with people's help, it’s entirely possible.”

Don Shanks is not only honoring his friend's memory but also raising awareness about the importance of fighting Alzheimer's disease. His decision to run the marathon is a symbol of hope and support for many facing this challenge in life. His efforts can help not only financially but also morally for those who find themselves in a similar situation.