Cure Parkinson’s is calling for fundraisers to embark on walking challenges to raise money and awareness for Parkinson’s. It comes as the research charity marks its 20th anniversary.
The bid follows in the footsteps of the charity’s co-founder, the late Tom Isaacs. The campaigner undertook a year-long walk around the 4,500 mile coastline of Britain in 2002.
The charity was set up in 2005 by four people living with Parkinson’s who wanted to see a Parkinson’s cure taken more seriously. It has since funded millions of pounds of research, including directly funding 13 clinical research trials.
Cure Parkinson’s Chief Executive Office Helen Matthews says: “This year we are encouraging our supporters to get involved with Cure Parkinson’s by walking, celebrating our late co-founder Tom Isaacs’ epic walk around the coastline of Britain.
“Our aim is to cure Parkinson’s and the only way we will do this is through the help of all our incredible supporters. We would be so thrilled if you would join us.”
Cure Parkinson’s fundraiser and person with Parkinson’s Sally Franck has raised more than £30,000 for Parkinson’s charities. Her walking challenges have included Hadrian’s Wall, Offa’s Dyke, and more recently Alfred Wainwright’s Coast to Coast.
“Walking brings so much pleasure, whatever distance you can manage. It might be just walking 100 metres up the road or taking on a long distance trail – but the challenge is there and the benefits from achievement are plenty,” she says.
“There is no cure for Parkinson’s and that makes it a life sentence not only for us, but also for all of those who live with, love and look after us. I know that what we all need is some hope; hope that a cure can be found as quickly as possible.”
Support for Cure Parkinson’s vision
Dominic Graham, Parkinson’s Europe’s Operations Director, praises the campaign. He says: “Tom Isaacs was a visionary co-founder of Cure Parkinson’s. He was also a dear friend of Parkinson’s Europe, and a highly valued Board member back in the 2000s.
“His relentless spirit and unwavering commitment to finding a cure profoundly inspired us in our own mission. We miss him greatly, and are proud to support this campaign. It so beautifully honours his pioneering legacy and continues the vital work he started. We will continue fighting alongside his vision for a world free of Parkinson’s.”
Supporters can organise their own walking fundraiser, or take part in Cure Parkinson’s organised walk in London on 28 September.
