Parkinson’s is a cruel master!

If you think it’s just a shaky hand and a wobbly walk, that’s only the part most people see. The reality is so much bigger.

My soulmate, husband, and best friend, Tony, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 17 years ago. We have lived with this condition for our entire married life. Parkinson’s doesn’t just affect the person who has it—it reaches into every corner of family life. It changes plans, limits choices, steals independence, and asks more of you than you ever thought possible.

Over the years, I’ve watched the man I love face challenge after challenge with courage and determination. Things many of us take for granted can become difficult, frustrating, or impossible. Even something as simple as holding and drinking a cup of coffee becomes an impossible task. Yet somehow we keep finding a way forward together.

We haven’t walked that path alone. Parkinson’s UK has been there for us when we’ve needed them most. Their nurses have provided invaluable advice, their helpline has been a lifeline when I have been overwhelmed, and their wonderful Care Adviser has helped me navigate and conquer the complex world of care and support. At times when I’ve felt exhausted, overwhelmed or unsure where to turn, they have listened, guided, supported and encouraged us.

Quite simply, they have made an enormous difference to our challenging times.

This year I have a milestone birthday. I’m turning 21… with 39 years of experience!

To mark the occasion I’m finally fulfilling a lifelong dream.

On 4th September, I’ll be driving a steam train on the Severn Valley Railway. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for years, and I’m incredibly excited that Tony will be there to share the day with me. Thanks to the support of one of our team of amazing carers he’ll be able to come along and be part of this special memory.

As I celebrate this birthday and tick off a bucket-list dream, I would love to give something back to the charity that has given us so much.

If you are able to donate, however small the amount, you’ll be helping Parkinson’s UK continue to support people living with Parkinson’s and the families who love and care for them. You’ll be helping others find the same advice, reassurance, and support that have meant so much to us.

Thank you for reading, thank you for caring, and thank you for any support you can give.

And yes, every little helps… although I suspect Parkinson’s UK wouldn’t object to some not-so-little donations either! 😊

Thank you for loving and supporting us

Helen❤️

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