Imagine not being able to move, sleep or smile. Feeling anxious or depressed and struggling to remember or think. Your body not feeling like your own, separated from your mind and beyond your control. This is Parkinson's.

One in 37 of people in the UK will hear the shocking diagnosis at some point in our lifetime, and the ripple effect means that an estimated one million people will have a loved one affected by the condition. And yet Parkinson's is still widely misunderstood; many think it only affects older people, primarily men. It doesn't it can strike anyone, at any time.

The symptoms of Parkinson's are greatly underestimated, with the characteristic tremor the most recognised, but tremors are the tip of a life-changing iceberg, and are in themselves much more debilitating than perceptions assume.

Excruciating muscle spasms and freezing can happen at any time, and can cause distressing and embarrassing situations many people trying to live their day-to-day lives are mistaken for being drunk and disorderly, treated with disapproval, judgement and impatience while doing their shopping, picking their children up from school, or taking public transport.

Mental health issues in people with Parkinson's are prevalent and serious, with anxiety and depression common and impactful symptoms that add to the already complex challenges the condition brings. Medications can bring further complications including addictions, OCD and hallucinations, and our research finds that suicidal thoughts among people with Parkinson's are worryingly high. Memory problems and dementia are also common.

The worst part is, Parkinson's is degenerative, and means living with the knowledge and fear that deterioration is inevitable. There is currently no cure, and a diagnosis can feel like a life sentence.

Parkinson's UK won't settle for that. They are a focused and pioneering charity that is determined to find better medications, to help people live their lives with Parkinson's the best way they can, feeling supported and understood and with access to the right care and the right advice. Ultimately, they will find a cure to end this condition.

The funds we raise will go towards running the helpline, which is at the heart of Parkinson's UK. The helpline receives over 2,700 calls a month and is run by trained advisers, including specialist Parkinson's nurses. It provides support to anyone affected by Parkinson's and is a lifeline to many of the people who call.