Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

We are running to help support our friend from Stratford Badminton Club, Martin Kenny, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's over 5 years ago.

Here's a few lines from Martin regarding his condition:

"Around 7 years ago I noticed a difference in the movement of my left arm and a couple of year later I was sent for tests. Returning home one Friday night I opened the letter from the consultant informing me that I had Parkinson's. I froze on reading the news. However, I still managed a full indian meal that night with friends and a few bottles of Cobra!

After research I found out that by the time of diagnosis you will have lost the use of at least two thirds of your brain cells. As a consequence your dopamine levels (that control your movement) will eventually leave with you with restricted movement. Curiously I can walk backwards better than I can forwards! For many years levodopa tablets have proved to be the most effective treatment to replace the dopamine. However, after 5 years or more this medication loses its effectiveness leaving patients exposed to pain, slow or rigid movement and disturbed sleep amongst other issues.

The charity Parkinson's UK is currently conducting research to find better treatment and possibly a cure. They raise awareness of the condition, run a helpline and organise local groups. Their work offers many people with Parkinson's the hope of a breakthrough"