Motivated by his mother’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, Eamon wanted to raise funds for the charity who has supported her over the last 20 years, as well as raising awareness of the condition.
Speaking about the challenge he said: “My mum, Mairin, has suffered from Parkinson’s for the last 20 years. She is an amazing woman who has taken a lot of this in her stride but it is very frustrating and sad for us as a family to see the effect it has had on her.
“My mission is to raise awareness of this degenerative disease as well as raising as much money as possible for Parkinson’s UK. By supporting this charity we can help fund vital research and provide better support for those affected by Parkinson’s.”
Having raised an astonishing £12,000, Eamon has pledged the first £5,000 to the charity centrally, with everything donated above £5000 going directly to the local Newry Support Group which started up again earlier this year thanks to new volunteers.
The group now meets monthly in Altnaveigh House, Downpatrick Road, Newry, where it provides a safe space for people to come together and socialise, take part in activities, hear from speakers and get vital information and support.
Eamon went along with his mum to their June meeting where he took part in the art and felting activities - as well as deservedly showing off his prized London marathon medal!
Morag Chambers, Volunteer Co-Ordinator with Parkinson's UK in Northern Ireland said: “Our support groups are run by volunteers and we are so grateful for the volunteers in Newry who have helped us to set up the Group again. We are so grateful to Eamon for his generous support which will allow the group to develop additional activities and offer more support to local people like his mum Mairin.”
Morag also appealed for more volunteers. “To carry out the important work locally, we will also need the help of additional volunteers, to help organise activities and welcome people to the meetings. As well as making a big difference to people living with Parkinson’s in your local community, volunteering is a great opportunity to try something new, have new experiences, and meet new people. I would encourage anyone living locally in Newry, who has time to spare, to volunteer with the group.”
The Newry Support Group takes a break over the summer months, but will be back again on Monday, September 8. For further details about the volunteer vacancies, or the group meetings, please contact Morag Chambers, Volunteer Co-Ordinator, on 07825 450219 or mchambers@parkinsons.org.uk