We are raising money for Parkinson’s UK by doing a bike ride from Slawston to Mablethorpe (110 miles) in 1 day. Martin will be riding his double decker bike for this event, in memory of Julie Livesley, Margaret Burnham and Edward Palmer (Ted). Parkinson’s is one of the most progressive neurological diseases in the UK, with 2 people being diagnosed every hour, and with our help and people continuing to raise money, we can hope for a better future for all those suffering.

 My name is Gemma and this is our story. My Grandmother, Margaret, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s early 1991, and after a brave but short battle Nanny Margaret passed away of Parkinson’s in 1996 she was 58, shortly before I was born. My Mother, Julie, was travelling in New Zealand at the time, and had to come back to care for Nanny Margaret to help with the family, so they could carry on functioning as normal, which is relatable to every family. In 2014, after 2 years of back and forth from the hospital with unknown symptoms, my Mother, Julie, was finally diagnosed with Parkinson’s. This came as a shock to the whole family as Mum was only 49 years old. Mum slowly declined as the years passed, especially when lockdown started in 2020 not being able to spend time with family, and her Granddaughter, my daughter - who was born Dec 2019. Mum sadly passed away in May 2021 from Parkinson’s at just 55 years old. Nothing will compare to that pain I and the rest of the family had to endeavour once Mum gained her wings. 

My name is James. Julie’s Husband and caregiver.  Julie and i were in the same year at school but didn’t really cross paths, not until working for the same company in the early 90’s. I approached Julie then but was lightly let down. By chance I met Julie again in 2015 at a charity event at the local rugby club. She was single.  We got together shortly after the event and then we got married in 2019. Julie’s condition was progressive but we packed in so many amazing times that we could. Julie passed away on 11 May 2021.  I love and miss my wife so much. This disease is horrible! It has left such a painful void. 

Martins Grandad, Ted, lived at Slawston and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s shortly after his wife sadly died of breast cancer. Ted passed away from Parkinson’s after a long battle of 40 years. 

Thank you for taking the time to read our story, and please donate if you can. Gemma, James and Martin. X