Our Parkinson’s participants have had a number of experiences throughout the last year, which have helped them to grow socially by meeting like-minded, relatable peers, whilst also raising awareness of Parkinson’s and taking part in incredible opportunities.

Last April, the “Parkie Rams”, our Parkinsons walking football group, had taken part in the Parkinson’s National Cup, the world’s largest Parkinson’s walking football event.

In January, they were invited to play on the pitch at Pride Park during the half-time break at the West Brom fixture, in aid of the EFL Community Weekend.

Last Saturday, our participants played in the Sport Parkinson’s Walking Football Cup at St. George’s Park and won not just one game, but two, for the first time!

Alongside the weekly chair-based exercise classes held in Melbourne, our Parkie Rams also challenged themselves physically and mentally, and ran the Derby 10K to raise funds for Derby County Community Trust.

Luke Wilkinson, Health Team Leader, said: “The past 12 months have shown us that by providing safe and friendly environments, we can encourage our participants to stay motivated and resilient. This is reflected in results, such as living healthier lifestyles and managing their Parkinson’s. 

They can take on numerous endurance events, which wouldn’t be possible without our partners, EFL and UHDB Parkinson’s Centre of Excellence.

We have achieved a lot within the last year and look forward to many more to come.”

If you would like to read more about what we can do to help, click here > https://derbycountycommunitytrust.com/what-we-do/neurological-disorders/.