Thank you for taking the time to visit this special page in memory of John Hedge and for making a donation to Parkinson's UK.

Dad was diagnosed with Parkinson's about 14 years ago and in his usual dogged, pragmatic style, tried to keep going and to do the things he wanted to. Moving to Reading in 2009, meant that he and Mum were just round the corner from us; until the last year, he was able to come to our house for Sunday lunch or afternoon tea, and enjoy time with his grandchildren and our little dog.

The last few years have been increasingly difficult as the disease progressed, robbing him of his independence and spark, but he carried on with fortitude and dignity. Dad still continued to inspire those who met him, with his wisdom and wealth of experience.  He had great support and care from the outreach programme at St Nicholas Earley and the work of Sue Ryder (Wokingham) as well as dedicated carers.

He was however fortunate to benefit from a form of treatment that helped with his mobility for a while, that is not available widely to all. The Royal Berkshire Hospital too has special resources for patients with Parkinson's, which gave us enormous help and support, practically and emotionally. Pioneering new treatments of the disease are being made all the time, and I know that Dad would be pleased that donations in his memory are supporting this valuable work.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.  By opting for Gift Aid too, enables your donation to go further.

Thank you for any support you can give to this charity which is dear to our hearts.

Best wishes,

Penny Wallington