Father’s Parkinson’s diagnosis spurred Sarah on to Walk for Parkinson’s
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Whether you’re a seasoned walker or looking to take on your first fundraising challenge, Walk for Parkinson’s is suitable for everyone. This year there are two different routes available for people to choose from. Participants can expect to see the sights along the Maritime Mile and the River Lagan, exploring the Titanic Quarter in Belfast with either a shorter 1.6 mile route, which is fully accessible or a longer 5.5 mile route for those looking to take on more of a challenge.
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Hide AdWalk for Parkinson’s promises not only steps, but smiles too as walkers will warm up together, walk together, and finish together with other members of the Parkinson’s community.
Last year Sarah McFarland from Islandmagee near Larne walked alongside her 5 year old daughter Emily and her friend Lorraine McCausland. She was prompted to walk because her dad Mervyn has lived with Parkinson’s for over 20 years.
“Last year, I took part in Walk for Parkinson’s to help raise money for the charity but also to help my daughter understand what is wrong with her grandad. He’s lived with Parkinson’s for over 20 years, having been diagnosed in his 40s.
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Hide Ad“He was a very successful builder, a big strong man. Now he sleeps all day and rarely communicates with us. He doesn't get to enjoy his six grandchildren and it’s very hard to watch.
“I didn't know what was ahead all those years ago when my dad was first diagnosed but I definitely never imagined it would be as awful as it is.
“I walked last year because we do want to fundraise for research towards a cure, but it’s also about supporting the work in Northern Ireland that can help make the lives of those living with Parkinson’s here a little easier.”
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Hide AdEmma and Nicola, Community Fundraisers for Northern Ireland at Parkinson’s UK, said: “Parkinson's is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world. In Northern Ireland there are 4,200 people living with the condition. Every hour, two more people in the UK are diagnosed, meaning 1 in 37 people alive today will be diagnosed with Parkinson's in their lifetime.
“There’s no cure for Parkinson’s. Yet. But if we walk together, we can make a difference to the lives of people with Parkinson’s. We can make breakthroughs and together we can stride towards a cure for the condition.
Whatever your age or fitness level, we’d love to see you at the Titanic Quarter to Walk for Parkinson’s. It’s time to walk the walk and sign up today!”
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Hide AdIt costs just £12 to sign up to Walk for Parkinson’s (under 18s go free!) and it's suggested you try and raise £50 in sponsorship. All walkers will receive a fundraising pack with tips and advice, sponsorship forms and an exclusive Walk for Parkinson’s t-shirt to wear on the day.
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