Our story.

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) are rare neurodegenerative movement disorders that share some of the symptoms of Parkinsons Disease. They are incredibly rare, affecting around only 5 people for every 100,000 people in the UK and so it was both upsetting and surprising that around three years ago both of our mums were diagnosed with PSP (Natalie's mum, Helen) and CBD (Carol's mum, Isobel). Helen and Isobel are facing many of the same symptoms and challenges and are having to adapt to the rapid changes and deterioration in their movement. Sadly, these are life limiting diseases with little or no medication to ease symptoms.

The PSPA have provided valuable support to both of our families as we have sought medical advice and practical support whilst addressing changing needs and trying to come to terms with what lies ahead. We are grateful that the PSPA is there to support our dads as carers as well as our mums and others with these diseases. Since the diagnoses, we have felt that we wanted to help in some way and so we have decided to walk to raise money so that PSPA can continue to fund research in to PSP and CBD and provide support.

*UPDATE! PSPA is running an event called Pathways to Progress to celebrate the release of the film The Salt Path, a story of a couple facing the challenges of CBD. This is a community fundraising event aiming to engage individuals, teams, and schools in a health-focused challenge to walk a minimum of 6.3 miles (10.08km) virtually. The chosen distances symbolise 1/100th of the Southwest Coastal Path (Salt Path), adding a unique and meaningful element to the challenge. What's more a generous donor has pledged to match donations up to £40,000, so every donation you make will be doubled!

The charity.

PSPA is the only UK charity dedicated to creating a better future for everyone affected by Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and Corticobasal Degeneration.

They do this by: providing information and support to enable families living with PSP & CBD to live their best possible lives; improving the quality of life for people living with the condition via research and awareness raising; putting the voice of the PSP & CBD community at the heart of what they do.