
A comedian and TV writer is set to host a free support and information event in Harrogate for people living with Parkinson's.
The evening, organised by the Harrogate & District branch of Parkinson’s UK, will be hosted by TV writer, comedian and Movers & Shakers podcaster, Paul Mayhew-Archer MBE.
Paul was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2011.
The event will be held on Wednesday 19th March from 6pm-9m at Ashville College in Harrogate.
The Harrogate & District NHS Foundation Trust’s multi-disciplinary and neurology team will highlight all the latest services available to people with the condition.
Occupational therapists, voice experts, physiotherapists and more will be sharing their tips on living well with Parkinson’s and the local support on offer for families and carers, too.
The free forum is sponsored and supported by the Parkinson’s UK Harrogate branch, who will also be on hand to offer advice.
Paul Mayhew-Archer said:
“The Harrogate branch of Parkinson's UK are doing something remarkable.
“They are putting on an information evening where experts will talk about the tell-tale signs of Parkinson’s and the help available to people with Parkinson's, and a very silly man who has Parkinson’s (that’s me) will tell lots of jokes about Parkinson’s.
“So if you have Parkinson’s, or if you know someone who has it, or if you know someone who might have it, or if you fancy learning and laughing at the same time, then do come along.”
Parkinson's is a complex brain condition that gets worse over time. It’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, affecting 153,000 people in the UK including 12,000 in the Yorkshire and Humber region.
It has more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is currently no cure.
Bob Archibald, vice chair at the Parkinson’s UK Harrogate branch, said:
“It can be a huge shock to get a Parkinson’s diagnosis.
“Adapting to life with the condition is often hard for the person affected and their loved ones, too. We know there are many people in the Harrogate area who are living with Parkinson’s and could really benefit from support, advice and friendship.
“Accessing the right information and meeting others with shared experiences can make all the difference.
“This new event will bring the local Parkinson’s community together with the fantastic teams supporting them.”
Parkinson’s UK is the charity that’s here to support every Parkinson’s journey, every step of the way.
For information and support, visit parkinsons.org.uk or call the charity’s free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.
There are also around 365 Parkinson's UK local groups throughout the UK, all run by volunteers who are trained and supported by Parkinson's UK staff.
To find out about local support, visit: parkinsons.org.uk/information-and-support or the branch website, harrogateparkinsons.co.uk
The Harrogate branch information evening is taking place at Ashville College on Green Lane in Harrogate. Booking is not required.