Parkinson's support and information online - Julie Alexander-Boxall's story

Julie Alexander-Boxall found that our website offered balanced information and practical support that helped her deal with her Parkinson's diagnosis.

Julie was diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 34.

She quickly went online to find out more about the condition and support available.

Parkinson's diagnosis

"When I was diagnosed, I couldn't believe it. Parkinson's was something old people got, I thought to myself. I was just 34. They had to be wrong. I felt sick, panicky.

"I went online and began searching for information. There was a lot on the internet that made me cry - I saw stories about people becoming severely debilitated by the condition.

"But eventually I found the Parkinson's UK website which gave straightforward information and advice.

Facts, information and support online

"From their website I learnt that Parkinson's is a progressive, neurological condition that affects movements such as walking and talking.

"I also learnt that - although the condition is common in older people - one in 20 of the 10,000 people diagnosed every year is under 40.

"I discovered that the quality of life for patients is better than it has ever been – and set to improve too. Being armed with this information somehow made my diagnosis easier to bear.

"Of course I veered between feeling angry and incredibly sad at first, wondering why on earth this had happened to me.

"But as time passed I learned to accept there was nothing I could do to change things. I had to make the best of it.

Keeping control of Parkinson's

"Over the past 4 years I've used the Parkinson's UK website regularly to help me understand what my consultant has told me during an appointment.

"I read up on drug treatments so I know what they are doing to my body and keep abreast of the latest research

"I suppose in a way, the website helps me feel in some sort of control of my condition – even though I can't fully control my body."

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