We all walk for Parkinson's

Megan, who is a yoga teacher and reprographics technician, is using exercise, particularly yoga, to manage her symptoms and raise awareness of Parkinson’s. She took part in Walk for Parkinson’s in Birmingham last year with her daughter Ada-Annie. 

Megan said: “My daughter completed the whole route. Watching her keep going reminded me why I stay positive. 

“This year we’re walking again to help make sure other people get access to the specialist support that has helped me so much.”

A personal mission

Megan was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s in September 2024, but her symptoms first began 7 years earlier while she was pregnant with her daughter.

She says: "It was a huge shock. There wasn’t a meeting or phone call - just a letter. The months that followed were filled with fear, sadness and uncertainty. I had weeks of knowing I had Parkinson’s but without proper support or medication. I felt very alone."

"She listens, explains things clearly and helps me understand how to manage my symptoms and daily life. After such a difficult start, having that consistent specialist support has made an enormous difference."

"Everyone from the age of 7 to 80 did what they could to get Dave's miles in!"

Samantha completed Walkies for Parkinson's in 2025 along with her dad Mark and, of course, Dave the dog. She explains:

"The reason we decided to take part in the walk was for my dad, Mark. He has had Parkinson’s since 2020 and loves to keep active so it seemed a great thing for us all to get involved in. My dad managed to walk 155 miles in the month with Dave and also with family and friends joining in, which made it fun and a nice sociable time for him. 

"My dad had lots of lovely interactions with people along the way as he had them stopping to ask about Dave’s bandana and would then explain his mission.

"What made it so fun was everyone wanting to get involved, from the age of 7 to 80, with walking what they could to get Dave's miles in!"