Kington resident to take on indoor rowing challenge for Parkinson’s UK

Bob North, 70, decided to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK following his own diagnosis in 2023 and wants to raise money to help the charity develop better treatments and potentially a cure

for the condition.

Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world and currently there is no cure. It affects around 153,000 people in the UK and every hour two more people are

diagnosed. There are many symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety.

Parkinson’s UK is the largest charitable funder of Parkinson’s research in Europe, leading the way to better treatments and a cure.

Bob said: “I started to notice a tremor back in 2022, and after several visits to the GP and ultimately a Consultant Neurologist I received a diagnosis in 2023.

“Following the diagnosis, I was referred to the NHS Specialist Parkinson’s nurses who introduced me to the work of the Parkinson’s UK charity. I was also fortunate enough to 

consult Sarah Edwards, a Neuro Physiotherapist who has a special interest in working with people living with Parkinson’s. As a result of those consultations I now understand how

important regular exercise is for slowing the progression of the condition and managing symptoms.”

“I also understand that the key to maintaining the habit of regular exercise is to find something you enjoy doing. Rowing is a great all-round exercise which I enjoyed in my

youth. It was, therefore, natural for me to return to the rowing machine as the basis of an exercise regime. So as a direct result of my diagnosis I am leaner, stronger and fitter and the

satisfaction I get from achieving the goals I set is a tremendous lift for my mental health.

“I also volunteer with both the National Trust and Wildlife Trust as a countryside ranger, which means a couple of days a week I am working out in the fresh air with a wide range of

movement; very important for managing symptoms.

 “Since my diagnosis I have learnt of Parkinson’s UK important work funding research into the condition and supporting people living with Parkinson’s and those who support and care

for them.

“I am hugely appreciative of the vital work they do and wanted to make my contribution. I hope the money raised by undertaking this challenge will help Parkinson’s UK to carry out

even more valuable work.

“I also hope that my effort will inspire other people living with Parkinson’s to find their own challenge, come forward to tell their own stories about living with Parkinson’s and support

the charity.”

Kirsty Berrigan and Rebecca Landolt, Heads of Community Fundraising at Parkinson’s UK said: “We are so grateful to Bob for taking on this incredible challenge for Parkinson’s UK.

“With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not

good enough.

“We hope that Bob’s fundraising challenge inspires you to get involved with Parkinson’s UK. There are lots of ways for you to get involved and support us – from volunteering at an event

to campaigning for better services. Without the generosity of people like you, our work would not be possible.”

To sponsor Bob visit www.justgiving.com/page/bob-north-1734975073688.

To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK visit parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising.