Kington resident completes indoor rowing challenge for Parkinson’s UK and raises over £2,000
A Kington resident rowed a half marathon challenge at Hereford Leisure Pool and has raised over £2,000 for Parkinson’s UK
Bob North, 70, decided to fundraise for the charity following his own diagnosis in 2023, to help the charity develop better treatments and potentially a cure for the condition.
Bob completed his indoor rowing challenge in a little over one hour and 32 minutes and he thanked all supporters before, during and after the event.
He said: “I am hugely indebted to many people for their support and encouragement in particular my wife Denise, Sarah Edwards, a Neuro-Physiotherapist who specialises in coaching people living with Parkinson’s and highlighting the positive advantages of physical and cognitive exercise, the staff at Halo centres, and the regulars at the Lady Hawkins Halo Centre, all of whom have played their part in making the event so successful.”
With more than 40 symptoms Parkinson’s can devastate lives. But being more active is one of the healthiest decisions someone living with Parkinson’s can make.
The benefits of activity can include improved flexibility and joint mobility, improved balance and a reduced risk of falls, higher energy levels, better sleep and lower stress levels.
Bob said: “I hope that by completing this challenge not only have I raised money to fund more research, but have inspired others to take up their own exercise programme, as well as improving my own health and wellbeing.”
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.
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 fundraiser for Parkinson’s UK.
“Bob’s rowing challenge is not only impressive but also incredibly important. 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 this fundraising challenge inspires everyone 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 more about Parkinson’s UK visit www.parkinsons.org.uk.
