Steps of Hope as Walk for Parkinson's to Raise Charity Cash
By Charity Correspondent, Jill Dando News
A walk in London, UK is aiming to raise funds for a brilliant charity
On Saturday, September 14th, Battersea Park will transform into a beacon of hope and solidarity as Parkinson's UK brings its Walk for Parkinson's fundraiser to the capital.
Leading the charge are two familiar faces from British television. Dave Clark, the former Sky Sports darts presenter, and Tom Read Wilson, TV presenter and actor, are rallying Londoners to join this inspiring event.
Their personal connections to Parkinson's add a touching dimension to their call for action.
Dave Clark, diagnosed with Parkinson's at 44, has been a force of nature in raising awareness and funds.
His journey with the condition spans over 12 years, during which he's raised an impressive £400,000 for Parkinson's UK.
“Parkinson's doesn't define me," he said.
For Tom Read Wilson, the cause hits close to home.
With both his great-grandmother and grandmother having had Parkinson's, and his father currently living with the condition, Tom's participation is a heartfelt tribute to his family's journey.
He said: “I find it profoundly heartening to see how much progress has been made,"
The Walk for Parkinson's is more than just a fundraiser; it's a gathering of warriors, supporters, and hope-bearers.
Matt Collins, 44, from London is also taking part and was inspired to get involved because he was diagnosed earlier this year and wants to support Parkinson's UK in finding a cure.
Matt said: “I can't wait for the event. It's going to be an amazing opportunity to join a massive community of people with Parkinson's and their friends and family to do something positive to help defeat Parkinson's.
“I think it could be quite an emotional day because the community will be coming together.
“We'll all be united in our difficulties and be able to support each other to complete the walk.
“Walking can be quite tricky for me so it could be a real physical challenge but it's one I'm relishing and I can't wait for the day.”
With two routes available - a 1.5-mile accessible path and a more challenging 6-mile trek - the walk caters to all abilities.
It's not just about the distance covered, but the statement made with every step.
Mohammed Kalam, Community Fundraiser for London at Parkinson’s UK, said:“Parkinson's is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world. In London, there are over 13,000 people living with the condition. Every hour, two more people in the UK are diagnosed, meaning 1 in 37 people alive today will be diagnosed with Parkinson's in their lifetime.
“There’s no cure for Parkinson’s. Yet. But if we walk together, we can make a difference to the lives of people with Parkinson’s. We can make breakthroughs and together we can stride towards a cure for the condition.
“Whatever your age or fitness level, we’d love to see you at Battersea Park to Walk for Parkinson’s. It’s time to walk the walk and sign up today!”
For just £12 (free for under 18s), you can be part of this inspiring event.
Each participant is encouraged to raise £50 in sponsorship, fueling the research that brings us closer to a cure.
As well as walkers, the charity is on the look-out for volunteers to help on the day.
To find out more about Walk for Parkinson’s and to sign up to walk or volunteer visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/get-involved/walk-parkinsons or email: walk@parkinsons.org.uk
