Grandfather raises money for Alzheimer's research by rowing solo across the Atlantic

Frank Rothwell's fundraiser for Alzheimer's research also put him in the record books.

Rothwell, 70, lives in Oldham, England. To raise money for Alzheimer's Research UK, Rothwell rowed 3,000 miles solo across the Atlantic Ocean, leaving the Canary Islands on Dec. 12 and arriving in Antigua on Saturday. He is now the oldest person to ever take on this feat, and also raised more than £640,000 ($878,761), with Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation doubling the first £500,000 ($686,532) in donations.

Crossing the finish line was a "completely euphoric moment," Rothwell told PA Media, and while it took six weeks to cross the ocean, he had been preparing and training for 18 months. He was inspired to raise money for Alzheimer's Research UK after seeing his brother-in-law battle the disease, and said he is grateful for "everyone who has reached into their pockets and donated. Having the support from so many means the world to me." Catherine Garcia

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