Matthew Spawton

Why I'm fundraising for Parkinson's, I need your help.

My wonderful mum (Rose), received the life shattering diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease in her early 40s- unusually young. An aggressive, degenerative disease that affects every part of life- walking, talking, eating, sleeping and more.

With bravery, sheer determination and ongoing medical support from the NHS mum continued to raise her family and work at the local college until she physically no longer could- a brutal blow. She then spent her time pursuing her passions of gardening, baking & spending time with her grandchildren but sadly- decades later after fighting this tirelessly brutal condition with incredible courage, Rosie is now permanently in a wheelchair. Daily tasks require carers & pain management is slowly failing her. 

Parkinson’s has slowly taken so much from her, things many of us take for granted - eating her favourite foods, going on holiday, taking a bath, reading....the list goes on. Despite this she has never stopped fighting, she has tried every treatment available, including pioneering deep brain stimulation surgery and every medication doctors could offer. She has never stopped fighting and she is truly the strongest, most determined person I know and I'm immensely proud of her. Sadly, there are now no treatment options left.

I know she will continue to fight until the very end through the constant daily pain and mental challenges the disease brings which I watch with awe and pride.  Through her strength of character and determination I hope to have many more years with her but watching someone you love lose more and more of their independence, abilities and soul to Parkinson’s is heartbreaking.

That’s why I’m taking on a skydive to raise money for Parkinson’s UK- to support vital research, better treatments, and hope for the millions of people and their families affected by this disease. It may not bring a cure in time for my mum but they are getting closer.

If you can donate, even a small amount, it would mean so much to me and my family. Together we can genuinely make a difference.

Thank you in advance for your support and Rose- you are the bravest person I know, I am honoured to call you my mum.