Cycling for a cause – Somerset man takes on epic journey through Scandinavia for Parkinson’s UK

Jonah Hawksley, a 20 year old from North Cadbury in Somerset has cycled 2,000 km through Scandinavia to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK.

Jonah pedalled with purpose through his incredible journey covering Norway, Finland and Sweden as a test of physical and mental resilience but also as a heartfelt initiative to honour two of his grandparents who have Parkinson’s.

Jonah said:

“I have seen first hand the difficulty that living with Parkinson’s has caused them both and the impact the condition has had on their daily lives. Despite how much Parkinson’s has taken from them, their bravery in keeping a positive and optimistic outlook inspired me to take on this challenge. I wanted to tackle this cycle with the same determination that they show in their everyday challenges.”

Taking on this epic journey alone, Jonah cycled up to 150 km in a day, riding for six hours without a break, before setting up camp each evening in the wilderness. The beautiful scenery of the Fjords and Scandinavian mountains got Jonah through the loneliness he faced in the more remote areas of his cycle. 

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Starting his journey in Tromsø in the Norwegian Arctic, Jonah battled through thunderstorms, a flooded tent and even a lost passport before making it to the King’s Palace in Stockholm, Sweden. 

Jonah said:

“I knew I had set myself a tough mental and physical challenge and just knew I had to keep pedalling for those closest to me and for those who continue to battle Parkinson’s. I also wanted to prove to myself that I was capable of completing this challenging cycle and to help raise money for Parkinson’s UK, enabling them to continue supporting people that suffer most with this cruel condition.” 

Kirsty Berrigan and Rebecca Landolt, Heads of Regional Fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, said:

“We are so grateful to Jonah for taking on this incredible challenge for Parkinson’s UK.  

“With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough.

“We hope that this fundraising challenge inspires you to get involved with Parkinson’s UK. There are lots of ways for you to get involved and support us – from volunteering at an event, to campaigning for better services. Without the generosity of people like you, our work would not be possible.”

To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK visit: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising

To show your support for Jonah’s epic cycle, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/jonah-hawksley-1681754288785