CLIMBING KILIMANJARO FOR PARKINSON’S UK CHARITY: DECEMBER 2025

Hey everyone, for the next nine days I’m dedicating my platform to raising awareness about Parkinson’s disease. It affects millions of people around the world, yet many still don’t understand what it really is, how it impacts daily life, and why support matters so much. I’ll be sharing facts, stories, and ways we can all help. Even small awareness makes a big difference.

If you’d like to support Parkinson’s research and care, my donation link is here. It’s also in the comments.

www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 2 — What Parkinson’s Disease Actually Is

“Today I want to break down what Parkinson’s disease is in simple terms. Parkinson’s is a neurological disorder that affects movement. It happens because the brain gradually loses dopamine-producing cells—dopamine is the chemical that helps us move smoothly and control our muscles. Symptoms can include tremors, stiffness, slow movement, balance difficulties, and more. It’s progressive, but symptoms and severity vary from person to person.”

If you want to help fund better treatments and support for families affected by Parkinson’s, the donation link is in my bio: www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 3 — Early Symptoms People Often Miss

“Parkinson’s doesn’t start with obvious tremors for everyone. Early signs can be subtle: reduced arm swing when walking, smaller handwriting, softer speech, loss of smell, constipation, or a feeling of stiffness that doesn’t go away. Recognizing these early signs can help people get proper medical support sooner.”

To support Parkinson’s awareness and care, here’s the link to donate: www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 4 — What Life with Parkinson’s Really Looks Like

“Living with Parkinson’s isn’t just about the visible symptoms. There are invisible challenges too—fatigue, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and changes in mood. Every day can feel different. Many people show incredible resilience, adapting their routines and learning new strategies to stay active and independent.”

If you want to stand with the Parkinson’s community, donations of any size help. Link: www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 5 — Treatments: What Exists & What’s Being Researched

“Right now, there’s no cure for Parkinson’s, but there are treatments that can help manage symptoms. Medications increase or mimic dopamine, physical therapy improves mobility, and, in some cases, deep brain stimulation can help reduce symptoms. Researchers are making progress in areas like gene therapy, stem cell treatments, and better medications. Hope is growing every year.”

You can help fund this research by donating at www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 6 — Supporting Someone Living with Parkinson’s

“One of the most powerful things we can do is support those living with Parkinson’s. That can mean being patient if they move more slowly, offering help without taking away their independence, listening without judging, and remembering that they still have goals, passions, and dreams. A strong support system changes everything.”

If you want to contribute to support programs for people with Parkinson’s, please visit www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 7 — Debunking Common Myths

“Let’s clear up some misconceptions about Parkinson’s.

Myth 1: Only older people get it — truth: young-onset Parkinson’s can affect people under 50.

Myth 2: Tremors are required — truth: not everyone shakes.

Myth 3: It’s just a movement disorder — truth: it affects mood, sleep, and cognitive function too.

Myth 4: There’s nothing you can do — truth: treatments, exercise, and support make a huge difference.”

Help spread truth and support real science by donating at www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 8 — Stories of Strength & Community

“Today I want to honour the strength of people living with Parkinson’s. So many individuals continue to work, create, parent, volunteer, and inspire others despite daily challenges. This community is full of resilience and courage. Sharing their stories helps reduce stigma and helps others feel less alone.”

To stand with this community, please consider donating: www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

DAY 9 — Final Message & Why Your Support Matters

“As we wrap up this 9-day awareness series, I want to say thank you for listening, learning, and supporting. Parkinson’s affects millions worldwide, and together we can push for better treatments, more research funding, and stronger community support. Awareness truly leads to action.”

If you haven’t donated yet and would like to, here’s the link: www.justgiving.com/page/james-parker-6

Every contribution moves us closer to a brighter future.”