Story
Thank you for visiting my JustGiving page.
My journey began in 2020 when I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, affecting mainly the right side of my body—smaller handwriting, tremors, reduced arm function, a dragging leg, and softer speech. I gave up my shotgun licence and stopped shaving as symptoms progressed.
In 2022 and 2023, I suffered several bone fractures, the worst in my lower back. After being admitted to A&E in January 2024 with severe pain, I was diagnosed with osteopenia. Recovery was slow, requiring a body corset, walking aids, and short daily walks—made harder by Parkinson’s.
Gradually, I increased my activity through water exercises, walking, gardening, and osteopathic treatment. I also became more socially active and involved with Parkinson’s UK.
Parkinson’s is incurable and progresses over time. My symptoms fall under bradykinesia: I’m not getting slower—the world is getting faster.
One wish I had was to ride my bicycle again. Because of balance issues and the risk of fractures, I sold my bike and bought a Jorvik E trike. The first 20 miles were daunting, but by January 2026 I had completed 800 miles exploring the Lincolnshire Wolds.
Parkinson’s UK has supported me greatly, and I’ve seen the positive impact they make. To give back, I’ve set myself a challenge: to ride my E-trike from Brookenby to the Lincoln Bailgate Parkinson’s Drop in Café to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK, a strong advocate for research and support.
Follow my training progress on Facebook, and please consider supporting Parkinson’s UK: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/
