Woman with Parkinson’s disease determined to raise awareness

A UK woman living with Parkinson’s disease is determined to raise awareness of the condition by taking part in a number of fundraising activities.

Ms Doreen Brown, Dundee, wants to help others living with the degenerative condition by raising money for Parkinson’s disease charities and proving that Parkinson’s doesn’t have to get in the way of sporting activities and challenging experiences.

“I tell people I don’t live with Parkinson’s — Parkinson’s lives with me,” she said.

In recent months, Ms Brown has undertaken a series of death-defying stunts, including abseiling from both the Falkirk Wheel and the Forth Rail Bridge in Scotland.

The thrill-seeker has also taken on skydiving and other adrenaline-fuelled activities, raising more than £2,000 for Parkinson’s disease research in the process.

“I don’t suppose there are too many grannies jumping out of planes and dropping down iconic Scottish buildings — but I’ve done it for a good cause. It was nerve-racking, but worthwhile,” she said.

Ms Brown added that her religious beliefs had also proved beneficial in inspiring her not to let the condition hold her back.

“I have a great faith in God and that helps me enormously. The Lord helps me deal with the situation,” she said.

The 60-year-old grandmother has also been successful in organising coffee mornings and other small charity events in her local community to raise money for Parkinson’s disease charities.

Enviva Care provides managed care in the home for Parkinson’s disease patients. To find out more about our services, contact us today.