Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page in memory of my late Granddad, Captain Norman Chandler.

In his earlier years, my courageous Grandad worked tirelessly as part of the merchant navy, spending much of his early career out at sea on ships. Despite the long distance, he always found a way to keep in touch with my Nana through heartfelt postcards, which I remember as being so wonderfully romantic! I’ve always admired his dedication to his work and his sharp intelligence - I often find myself wishing I had inherited his critical thinking skills! He then went on to earn his Master Mariners certificate, which granted him the admirable title of Captain. Later in his career, he served as the dock master for both Grimsby and Immingham dock, managing the bustling flow of maritime activity.

However, everything changed when he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a cruel and relentless condition that slowly stripped away the man I admired so deeply. Parkinson's is a progressive neurological disorder that disrupts the normal functioning of the brain, leading to a range of debilitating symptoms. Many people don't realise that it can affect individuals as young as 40, bringing with it not only physical challenges but also emotional and psychological effects. For Grandad, the tremors and rigidity were visible signs of the disease, but the anxiety and mental strain it imposed were also just as apparent. Watching him struggle with uncertainty and fear took a toll on our family, as we witnessed the once-strong man I knew struggle with the many challenges caused by this condition.

Even as he faced these immense difficulties, our Norman maintained his strength and spirit until the very end. Five years later, his resilience has inspired me to take action and raise funds for those currently living with Parkinson's. I want to support research and initiatives that can make a difference in the lives of others, offering them hope and resources that my Grandad once found invaluable.

Thank you for helping me honour his memory, and your generosity means everything to me and those fighting this battle.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Let's do this Norm, I'm sure this is nowhere near as scary as some of the things you've had to do in your nautical career! Love Mill x x x