Welshpool Fundraisers Gear Up for Final 10x10km Parkinson's Challenge
In Welshpool, resident Philip Jones and a dedicated team of 10 local supporters are preparing for their ambitious 10x10km running challenge this March, aiming to raise crucial funds for Parkinson's UK Cymru. Building on their successful fundraising efforts in 2024 and 2025, the group has intensified the challenge for their third and final year. The event will kick off on Sunday, March 8, with participants running 10 kilometers daily for 10 days, spread over a 14-day period, and will culminate at the Welshpool 10km race on March 22.
Charity Partnership and Fundraising Goals
Parkinson's UK Cymru has been selected as the official charity for the Welshpool 10km run by organisers Adrenaline Sporting Events, highlighting the strong community support. Having already generated a substantial amount for the charity, the group is now targeting a total of £35,000 across all three years of their initiative. This goal underscores their commitment to making a significant impact in the fight against Parkinson's disease.
The Growing Impact of Parkinson's in the UK
Parkinson's disease is increasingly prevalent, with a new diagnosis made every 20 minutes in the UK. Currently, around 166,000 individuals are living with Parkinson's across the country, including approximately 8,600 in Wales. The condition manifests through more than 40 symptoms, such as tremor, rigidity, and anxiety, making support and research vital.
Voices from the Community
Keri McKie, Community Fundraiser at Parkinson's UK Cymru, expressed gratitude, stating: "We're so grateful to Philip and all his supporters for fundraising for Parkinson's UK Cymru for the third year in a row. We also want to thank the Welshpool 10KM organisers Adrenaline Sports Event for their generous support. From searching for a cure and campaigning for better health and care, to funding research into groundbreaking new treatments and running life-changing support services, none of it would be possible without our supporters."
Reflecting on the challenge, Philip Jones shared: "We have expanded to 10 days over a two-week period to enable as many people as possible to join a run local to them, starting on Sunday 8th and finishing as ever at the Welshpool 10K on Sunday 22nd March. We started this trilogy of challenges with three aims: raise the profile of Parkinson's, encourage people to exercise, and also to raise money to fund support services. I think all those aims have been realised."
How to Get Involved
To support this cause, donations can be made through the group's Just Giving page. Additionally, Parkinson's UK Cymru has places available for individuals to participate in the Welshpool 10km run and raise funds, offering a direct way for the community to contribute to this vital charity work.
