Melton resident Jan Jackson is preparing to take part in Walk for Parkinson's at Thoresby Park on Saturday, July 4, 2026. She is encouraging others to join her in supporting Parkinson's UK's Nurse Appeal, which aims to raise £9 million to fund Parkinson's nurses and other specialists.
Specialist Shortage Affects Thousands
Parkinson's specialists are a lifeline for the 166,000 people in the UK living with Parkinson's, but currently over 28,000 people with the condition lack access to them. The nationwide shortage in specialists, plus a lack of understanding of Parkinson's among other health and care professionals, means that around one in five people with the condition are missing out on the expert care they desperately need.
Jan's Personal Motivation
Jan was inspired to get involved and fundraise for Parkinson's UK because she was diagnosed with the condition more than 15 years ago. She is determined to stay active to help slow its progression while raising vital funds alongside her daughter, Jessi.
Jan said: “Since being diagnosed I've learned that staying active is one of the most important ways I can help manage the condition. Exercise has played a huge part in helping me stay strong, maintain my independence, and keep on top of the challenges that Parkinson's brings. My daughter Jessi and I have signed up to complete the six-mile fundraising walk. While the distance will be a challenge, I feel determined and ready to take it on. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a real difference to help the charity continue its vital work and support those affected by this condition.”
About Parkinson's
Parkinson's is a complex brain condition that gets worse over time. Affecting 166,000 people in the UK, it has more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is currently no cure.
Event Details
Walk for Parkinson's at Thoresby Park will take place on July 4, 2026, with two routes available: a 1.9-mile route and a longer, 6.1-mile route. It costs just £12 to sign up (under 18s go free) and the suggested sponsorship target per person is £100. All walkers will receive a fundraising pack with tips and advice, sponsorship forms, and an exclusive Walk for Parkinson's t-shirt to wear on the day. As well as walkers, the charity is looking for volunteers to help on the day. Registration is open until June 28, 2026, at 11.59pm.
Katie Thomas and Hannah Scammell, community fundraisers for the East Midlands at Parkinson's UK, said: “It’s inspiring to have people like Jan and daughter Jessi sign up to support Walk for Parkinson's to help raise money for Parkinson's Nurse Appeal. The funds raised will aim to raise £9m over three years to increase the number of Parkinson's specialists. This will give thousands of people with Parkinson's access to the specialist care they need. We hope as many people as possible will come along to take part in the walk, which promises to be lots of fun. We’re also keen to hear from anyone who would be interested in volunteering to support the smooth running of the event.”
To find out more about Walk for Parkinson's and to sign up to walk or volunteer, visit parkinsons.org.uk/get-involved/walk-parkinsons or email walk@parkinsons.org.uk. 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.
