Latest news with #Parkinson'sUK
Leader Live
3 days ago
- Health
- Leader Live
Wrexham: Residents urged to Walk for Parkison's this summer
David Finlay, 74, a retired police officer, is set to take part in his first Walk for Parkinson's just months after being diagnosed with the condition. David will be walking alongside his wife Lesly, as they take on the event at Alyn Waters Country Park, Wrexham, on Saturday June 28 - which will be the first time it has ever been held in north Wales. David received his diagnosis in January this year, a moment that he recalls as being a huge shock to him and his family. But rather than sit still, David is determined to stay active, raise awareness and give back to Parkinson's UK. He said: 'I was completely floored by the diagnosis. But within days, I found myself signing up to the walk as a way of channelling the shock into something positive. Taking part has helped me feel in control again.' David and Lesly will be taking part in the shorter, fully accessible 1.7 mile route as they both manage ongoing health conditions as David also lives with angina, and Lesly lives with a brain tumour (pituitary adenoma). David added: 'Lesly and I believe in staying active - it's the word that keeps popping up for us. We're part of a Parkinson's UK Zoom group and have met so many great people going through similar things. "We're not going to let this condition define us. It's not easy, but doing something - anything - helps. This walk felt like a natural step for us.' TOP STORIES TODAY To find out more about Walk for Parkinson's and to sign up to walk or volunteer visit: or email: walk@ Originally from Chester, David, has spent decades fundraising for a number of causes as a Freemason and former Round Tabler. Even in retirement, he continues to raise money for charity through his two seasonal roles; as a historical mill guide during the summer and as a professional Father Christmas during the festive season. David and his wife Lesly as Mr and Mrs Claus to raise money for charity. (Image: Parkinson's UK) David said: 'I donate 75% of everything I raise through both roles to charity, and Parkinson's UK is now part of that. It feels right to put my energy into something that's directly helping people like me and Lesly.' Parkinson's is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, affecting 153,000 people across the UK including around 8,300 in Wales, but thousands of them currently don't have access to the care they vitally need. Walk for Parkinson's is Parkinson's UK's flagship series that this year is aiming to raise vital funds to improve access to specialist Parkinson's care across the UK. Keri McKie, Community Fundraiser for Wales at Parkinson's UK Cymru, said: 'David and Lesly's story is an inspiring reminder of how powerful it can be to stay connected and keep moving, even in the face of a life-changing diagnosis. We're so grateful to them for taking part and sharing their story. 'Last year's Walk for Parkinson's in Wales raised more than £27,000 thanks to the amazing 300 people who took part. This year, we're excited to bring the event to north Wales for the very first time, and we'd love to see even more people step up to help fund the specialist care and support that's urgently needed.'
Pembrokeshire Herald
26-05-2025
- Health
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Pembrokeshire couple lead annual walk in memory of father lost to Parkinson's
Over £50,000 already raised for Parkinson's UK by local fundraiser WALKERS across Pembrokeshire are being urged to take part in the 2025 Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's, an annual charity event that has raised tens of thousands of pounds for vital medical research. Organised by Bob Ratcliffe and his wife Jane in memory of Bob's late father, the event will take place on Saturday, 7th June, starting at Haverfordwest Cricket Club, with registration from 10:00am. Entry costs £15, with all proceeds going to Parkinson's UK. The walk, a scenic 7.8km circular route with planned refreshment stops, welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Dogs on leads are also welcome. The fundraiser was first launched in 2011, following the death of Bob's father in 2010. His brain and spinal column were donated to Parkinson's research—a gesture that inspired the family to continue raising awareness and funds. Since then, more than £50,000 has been raised through the walks and related events. Bob said: 'This is the fourth official Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's and we're hoping it will be the biggest and best yet. We've got a little surprise planned for walkers and shoppers around Castle Square at noon, so even if you can't complete the full walk, come and join us to show your support.' He also extended his thanks to Haverfordwest Rotary Club and the many local businesses donating raffle prizes. Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition that affects around 153,000 people in the UK, including 8,300 in Wales. There are over 40 symptoms, ranging from tremor and muscle rigidity to depression and fatigue. There is currently no cure. Keri McKie, Wales Community Fundraiser for Parkinson's UK Cymru, praised Bob's efforts: 'We are incredibly grateful to Bob and Jane for their continued dedication. Events like this are a lifeline for our research and support services. Whether you live with Parkinson's or simply want to help, this walk is a fantastic way to make a difference.' To sign up for the 2025 Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's, visit: Registration is also available on the day. For more information, contact Bob Ratcliffe on 07887 707496 or email bobratcliffe@ Caption: Bob and Jane Ratcliffe and Lynne Whiting at a previous walk (Pic: Supplied)
Pembrokeshire Herald
26-05-2025
- Health
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Tenby lifeboat crew captured in stunning team photo
Over £50,000 already raised for Parkinson's UK by local fundraiser WALKERS across Pembrokeshire are being urged to take part in the 2025 Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's, an annual charity event that has raised tens of thousands of pounds for vital medical research. Organised by Bob Ratcliffe and his wife Jane in memory of Bob's late father, the event will take place on Saturday, 7th June, starting at Haverfordwest Cricket Club, with registration from 10:00am. Entry costs £15, with all proceeds going to Parkinson's UK. The walk, a scenic 7.8km circular route with planned refreshment stops, welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Dogs on leads are also welcome. The fundraiser was first launched in 2011, following the death of Bob's father in 2010. His brain and spinal column were donated to Parkinson's research—a gesture that inspired the family to continue raising awareness and funds. Since then, more than £50,000 has been raised through the walks and related events. Bob said: 'This is the fourth official Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's and we're hoping it will be the biggest and best yet. We've got a little surprise planned for walkers and shoppers around Castle Square at noon, so even if you can't complete the full walk, come and join us to show your support.' He also extended his thanks to Haverfordwest Rotary Club and the many local businesses donating raffle prizes. Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition that affects around 153,000 people in the UK, including 8,300 in Wales. There are over 40 symptoms, ranging from tremor and muscle rigidity to depression and fatigue. There is currently no cure. Keri McKie, Wales Community Fundraiser for Parkinson's UK Cymru, praised Bob's efforts: 'We are incredibly grateful to Bob and Jane for their continued dedication. Events like this are a lifeline for our research and support services. Whether you live with Parkinson's or simply want to help, this walk is a fantastic way to make a difference.' To sign up for the 2025 Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's, visit: Registration is also available on the day. For more information, contact Bob Ratcliffe on 07887 707496 or email bobratcliffe@ Caption: Bob and Jane Ratcliffe and Lynne Whiting at a previous walk (Pic: Supplied)
Pembrokeshire Herald
26-05-2025
- Health
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Charity gig to rock Haverfordwest in aid of Air Ambulance and Megan's Star
Over £50,000 already raised for Parkinson's UK by local fundraiser WALKERS across Pembrokeshire are being urged to take part in the 2025 Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's, an annual charity event that has raised tens of thousands of pounds for vital medical research. Organised by Bob Ratcliffe and his wife Jane in memory of Bob's late father, the event will take place on Saturday, 7th June, starting at Haverfordwest Cricket Club, with registration from 10:00am. Entry costs £15, with all proceeds going to Parkinson's UK. The walk, a scenic 7.8km circular route with planned refreshment stops, welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Dogs on leads are also welcome. The fundraiser was first launched in 2011, following the death of Bob's father in 2010. His brain and spinal column were donated to Parkinson's research—a gesture that inspired the family to continue raising awareness and funds. Since then, more than £50,000 has been raised through the walks and related events. Bob said: 'This is the fourth official Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's and we're hoping it will be the biggest and best yet. We've got a little surprise planned for walkers and shoppers around Castle Square at noon, so even if you can't complete the full walk, come and join us to show your support.' He also extended his thanks to Haverfordwest Rotary Club and the many local businesses donating raffle prizes. Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition that affects around 153,000 people in the UK, including 8,300 in Wales. There are over 40 symptoms, ranging from tremor and muscle rigidity to depression and fatigue. There is currently no cure. Keri McKie, Wales Community Fundraiser for Parkinson's UK Cymru, praised Bob's efforts: 'We are incredibly grateful to Bob and Jane for their continued dedication. Events like this are a lifeline for our research and support services. Whether you live with Parkinson's or simply want to help, this walk is a fantastic way to make a difference.' To sign up for the 2025 Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson's, visit: Registration is also available on the day. For more information, contact Bob Ratcliffe on 07887 707496 or email bobratcliffe@ Caption: Bob and Jane Ratcliffe and Lynne Whiting at a previous walk (Pic: Supplied)
Glasgow Times
25-05-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Chatelherault walk aims to boost Parkinson's support
The charity has launched its biggest-ever fundraiser, the Nurse Appeal, aiming to raise £9 million to fund specialist nurses and improve care for people living with Parkinson's across the UK. The walk, which is part of the charity's Walk for Parkinson's series, will take place at Chatelherault Country Park on June 7 and is open to people of all ages and abilities. (Image: Supplied) The charity said that more than 30,000 people with the condition currently lack access to specialist care. The Nurse Appeal aims to secure essential initial funding over the next three years to create new nurse posts and specialist roles, as well as provide training and education for healthcare professionals. Dougray Scott, an actor and supporter of Parkinson's UK, said: "Parkinson's is a degenerative and incurable neurological condition and people living with it, and their loved ones, rely on vital support from specialist nurses and other healthcare professionals. "Sadly that support simply isn't available for thousands of people and that has to change. (Image: Supplied) "I'm proud to support Parkinson's UK and its Nurse Appeal, and I urge people to kindly donate what they can. "Together, we can help secure specialist Parkinson's care for the thousands more people who urgently need it." Mr Scott's father lived with the condition for many years. Also supporting the appeal is Parkinson's UK ambassador and former Sky Sports presenter Dave Clark, who was diagnosed with the condition at 44. He said: "I have been living with Parkinson's for over 14 years, but it still doesn't define me. "I'm determined to stay positive and embrace life. "Join me and thousands of others taking part in Walk for Parkinson's. "Every step we take together helps support people living with Parkinson's." He has raised more than £200,000 through his fundraising walks alone. It costs £12 to sign up for Walk for Parkinson's, with a suggested sponsorship target of £100 per person. All walkers will receive a fundraising pack and an exclusive Walk for Parkinson's t-shirt to wear on the day. To sign up or volunteer, go to or email walk@
