On the 17th of March I will be running my first ever marathon in Rome to raise money for EQIP, a charity that support people living with Parkinson's to enjoy a better quality of life. EQIP organize mood-boosting and symptom-easing activities, their mission is to make life more positive, manageable, and meaningful for people with Parkinson’s.

In November last year we lost my Grandad to a long fought battle with Parkinson's. He was a quiet, humble and proud Scotsman who dedicated his life to his family. He spent the last 9 years of his life suffering with Parkinson which, over time became progressively worse.

The memories that I shared with him that I hold closest to my heart were the fishing trips to his homeland in Scotland. Although the symptoms of Parkinson's were very much still there, it was forgotten about for that short period of time. Each year I would be more impressed than the last at how he managed to cope physically with the demands whilst the Parkinson's got worse.

The importance of movement and brain stimulation for people suffering with Parkinson's can't be underestimated. The work that EQIP does offers opportunities for people like my Grandad to have a better quality of life.

If you are able to spare what you can to donate towards a small charity making a big impact for the 153,000 people that are living with Parkinson's, It would be highly appreciated.

Cal