Story
Parkinsons Care and Support UK (PCSUK), is the UK's number one charity focussing on natural and alternative therapies and treatments as well as non-pharmaceutical research. They provide free Parkinsons Specialist exercise classes across the UK, home based neurological physiotherapy, respite care for family carers of those with Parkinsons and social activities and excursions to reduce isolation amongst people with Parkinsons. Up to 50% of people with Parkinsons also suffer from anxiety and depression and so they are developing a CBT Helpline to support these people to improve quality of live and reduce suicide.There are over 145,000 people in the UK who have been diagnosed with Parkinsons Disease (of which I am one) and there is currently no cure. Some symptoms of Parkinsons can include stiffness, slowness in moving, loss of coordination, problems with balance, shaking, pain and cognitive decline. Parkinsons Care and Support UK rely on the public to raise or donate money to allow them to further support people with Parkinson's. Three years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's. I am lucky that mine seems a mild version, at the moment. By taking the prescribed drugs, I've been able to continue playing the piano for singalongs - with most people being seemingly unaware of my condition. In this unexpected moment of us all being unable to congregate in a pub for a sing-song, it seemed an ideal time to play a 60-minute Sing-Along-A-John gig from my home into yours and, at the same time, fundraise for this charity.