Spotlight on Parkinson’s
Because of Parkinson’s UK, no one has to face Parkinson’s alone.
People with Parkinson’s don’t have enough of the chemical dopamine because some of the nerve cells in their brain have died. Without it people can find that their movements become slower so it takes longer to do things. This can make everyday activities, such as eating, getting dressed, or using a phone or computer, difficult or frustrating.
As well as the symptoms that affect movement, people with Parkinson’s can find that other issues, such as tiredness, pain, depression and constipation, can have an impact on their day-to-day lives.
There are around 120,000 people with Parkinson’s in the UK and 10,500 in the South West. 1 in 20 people is under the age of 40 when they are diagnosed.
A network of local groups
Because of Parkinson’s UK, no one has to face Parkinson’s alone. Parkinson’s UK bring people with Parkinson’s, their carers and families together via a network of local groups, their website and free confidential helpline.
Specialist nurses, supporters and staff provide information and training on every aspect of Parkinson’s.
As the UK’s Parkinson’s support and research charity, Parkinson’s UK is leading the work to find a cure, and is closer than ever. They also campaign to change attitudes and demand better services.
Jean Almond, Regional Fundraiser for the PDS in the South West, hopes that many more people will support the charity. “We campaign for a better quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and provide expert information on all aspects of living with the condition. We have a strong local support network in the community working to support people with Parkinson’s, their families and carers.”
“We have invested over 45 million pounds in research into all aspects of Parkinson’s since 1969 and we have come closer to discovering a cure in the last decade than ever before. However, there is so much more that needs to be done and we need your support to change the lives of people with Parkinson’s.”
The Parkinson’s Disease Society is totally dependent on voluntary donations in order to fund all research, information and support for people with Parkinson’s.
Local support
There are over 40 Parkinson’s UK branches and support groups across the South West. Our Plymouth and District Branch supports all people with Parkinson’s, their families and carers in Plymouth. The branch welcomes visitors to its meetings at Emmanuel Church Hall in Mannamead, Plymouth, on the second Tuesday of every month at 2pm.
How you can help
There are many ways to get involved with Parkinson’s UK and support our work:
Volunteer to help at your local branch
Take part in one of our many fundraising events
Organise your own fundraising event
Whatever you do, do it for Parkinson’s. Visit the website.
For information on how to get involved or to find your local branch, contact Jean Almond, Regional Fundraiser on 0844 225 3732 or email [email protected]
