Veronica Storey

Why I am fundraising for Parkinson's UK

On 5 September 2026 our group will be taking part in the Parkinson’s UK walk in Battersea Park. There are two distances to choose from,1.5 and 6.2 miles and the group have been out walking in the evenings in preparation for the event.

 

One of the main reasons for participating in the walk is to support one of our members, Claire (her name has been changed to protect anonymity). Claire was diagnosed with Parkinsons in 2024. She is one of 166,000 currently living with the disease in the UK. 

 

Despite this surprising news for both her and her family, Claire has begun adapting to a new lifestyle. Alongside taking medication, which has proved to be challenging with some side effects, Claire has been encouraged to increase and maintain her fitness levels and cognitive abilities.

 

Prior to diagnosis, Claire was already a member of the Hamptons Healthy Hipsters. The group currently meets twice a week on the Hamptons estate in Worcester Park and focuses on flexibility, mobility, strength and balance exercises. All these exercises support people in their senior years and are of significant benefit to their wellbeing. Claire has also been working with a personal trainer and is a member of a walking football group which includes a diverse range of gender, ages and abilities. 

She  says "The support I have had from the Hamptons group has been amazing and I look forward to joining them on the walk."

 

Funds are much needed by Parkinson's UK to employ specialist nurses to support those with Parkinson’s. Thank you so much for your support!