Parkinson’s UK branch launched in Ballymena

MORE than 130 people from all walks of life gathered at the Ballymena North Business & Recreation Centre recently to celebrate the Inauguration of the Ballymena & District Branch of Parkinson’s UK.

Guest speakers included Dr Gavin McDonnell, Consultant Neurologist; the Mayor of Ballymena, Councillor Hubert Nicholl, and senior personnel from Parkinson’s UK, the only charity in UK committed to providing information and support to all who are affected by Parkinson’s.

Jimmy McClean, Chairman of the local Branch said “Every hour someone in the UK is told they have Parkinson’s, a degenerative neurological condition for which there is no known cure at present.

“When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s it can be a traumatic time, not only for them but also for those close to them.

“The Branch has been formed to offer support to anyone in this area living with Parkinson’s so that no-one has to face it alone”.

The branch meets in the Ballymena North Business & Recreation Centre, Cushendall Road at 3p.m. on the third Friday of each month.

If you would like more information contact Anna Mc Clean via email: [email protected].

For more information on the support services available in the local area please contact Jean Lennox, Information and Support Worker on 0844 225 9823 or email jlennox@parkinsons’org.uk

You can also find out more by logging on to Parkinsons.org.uk/findacure which has information on Parkinson’s Awareness Week April 15 – 22.