A man from Cranage, Cheshire, will cycle 980 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats, as part of the Deloitte Ride Across Britain event from 6 - 14 September 2019, to raise money for charity Parkinson’s UK.
62-year old, Simon Cooper, is participating in the cycling event in memory of his late father, Jack Cooper, who had Parkinson’s.
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition for which there is currently no cure, and it affects around 148,000 people in the UK, including 121,927 in England.
Simon said:
“My Dad was always very active in his life as he was a sports teacher and played rugby for Sale. When we were all grown up and having children ourselves, it seemed Parkinson’s took away a lot of Dad's enjoyment of those moments. I could see the frustration in his eyes when he couldn't find the words or do simple things with his grandchildren that he once could.
“By taking on the challenge and raising money for Parkinson’s UK, I want to make a difference to those affected by the condition. I want to honour my Dad and his memory will get me through this.”
Parkinson’s UK estimate that there are more than 40 symptoms of the condition. As well as the most widely known symptom - tremor - these range from physical symptoms like muscle stiffness to depression, anxiety, hallucinations, memory problems and dementia, but Parkinson’s affects everyone differently.
The charity aims to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's through pioneering research, information, support and campaigning.
Katy Payne, Head of Events at Parkinson’s UK, said:
“We’re delighted and grateful that Simon has chosen to support Parkinson’s UK by taking on the incredible challenge of taking on this year's Deloitte Ride Across Britain.
“Our work supporting people with Parkinson’s, and research to find better treatments and a cure for the condition is completely dependent on donations.
“To put it simply, without the support of our amazing fundraisers, the work we do just wouldn’t be possible. We wish Simon the very best of luck for the challenge.”
Simon is hoping to raise £2,200.
To sponsor Simon, please visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonCooper44