Parkinson's diagnosis - Tina Walker's story

Tina Walker was diagnosed with Parkinson's when she was 47.

Although Parkinson's has a major impact on her life, she still finds time to have fun with her grandchildren.

Parkinson's diagnosis

"When I was diagnosed with Parkinson's the consultant said: 'You know what I'm going to tell you.'

"It was 10.25am exactly, 20 November 2003. You remember moments like that for the rest of your life.

"Before my diagnosis I worked as an occupational therapist. I loved my job, but quite early on I started to get symptoms that made work difficult.

"Parkinson's does have a huge impact on my life and the medication I am on affects my behaviour.

Finding help and support

"The best thing I did for myself was joining Parkinson's UK. In the beginning, it was there as a lighthouse to guide me.

"It stopped me banging against rocks in the early years. They're very supportive and their help with getting the right services is something everyone who has Parkinson's needs.

"I'm was previously Chair of the Younger Parkinson's Network and I've started a local support group.

"It's somewhere to talk where people won't wonder: 'What's wrong with you?' It's also a chance for the families and carers to get together. We have day trips and meals out together and the children learn to understand the condition more.

Everyone is different

"Parkinson's is very individual. Everyone takes it differently. I find that reassuring in a way.

"It's definitely Parkinson's, but it's unique to you. And even with all the symptoms, I can still look after my grandchildren.

"When I take them all out, I wonder if people are thinking: 'Gosh, you've got Parkinson's, you shouldn't be doing that'. But I'm a great believer in 'I have Parkinson's - it doesn't have me'."

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