Ayrshire man putting his best foot forward in Parkinson's charity fundraiser

An Ayrshire man is taking part in ‘Walk for Parkinson’s’ to help fund vital support for people affected by the condition.

Steven Borland, 24, from Coylton, was inspired to sign up because his Uncle Tom has Parkinson’s.

He told Ayrshire Live: “My Uncle Tom was diagnosed with Parkinson’s a few years ago now and ever since his diagnosis has been living with good and bad days due to the condition.

“With the strong love and support from his wife and family, he is getting peace of mind knowing that no matter what happens, his family will always be here to help.

“I want to do as much as I can for him during this difficult time.

“I know from first-hand experience how difficult it is to watch someone go through Parkinson’s and I hope by raising awareness we can somehow assist everyone and anyone currently living with or who knows someone with Parkinson’s.

“I have set my target at £400 and I am looking forward to telling my uncle that I took part and how much I was able to raise.”

Charity Parkinson’s UK has launched its annual Walk for Parkinson’s series which was cancelled last year due to the Covid pandemic.

This year, there are three ways to take part: Join a socially-distanced organised walk near you; Walk for Parkinson’s 66-mile challenge by completing 66 miles of walking in July or Walk for Parkinson’s Your Way: walk two or six miles wherever you are over the weekend of Saturday, September 25.

Steven will be taking part in Walk for Parkinson’s 66 and will walk 66 miles throughout July to try to raise his target of £400.

Money raised by Walk for Parkinson’s will help transform the way the charity offers information and support to those diagnosed, and their loved ones.

This year, thanks to the Frank and Evelyn Brake Connect Fund, sponsorship will be matched pound for pound, doubling the benefit for people affected by Parkinson’s.

Ann Rowe, head of regional fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, said: “Last year there was so much we couldn’t do, and living in lockdown was difficult and lonely for many of us. For many people with Parkinson’s, their symptoms got worse. This year, we need each other more than ever.

“Taking part in Walk for Parkinson’s in 2021 is a chance to get outside, connect with the Parkinson’s community and make a difference. By walking together, either in person or virtually, we’re not alone.”

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world and currently there is no cure. In the UK, there are around 145,000 people already living with Parkinson’s. There are over 40 potential symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety.

To sponsor Steven, visit his online giving page at https://events.parkinsons.org.uk/fundraisers/stevenborland

To take part in Walk for Parkinson’s visit www.parkinsons.org.uk/get-involved/walk-parkinsons

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