A Richmond architect is midway through a 1,350-mile challenge to raise awareness of Parkinson’s, a cause close to her heart.
Andrea Schrader, 34, is aiming to raise £5,000 for Parkinson’s UK’s vital research and support services. Her challenge includes seven marathons as well as cycling the length of Britain.
Andrea’s mum Inez was diagnosed with Parkinson’s five years ago and the 1,350 miles represents the one in 350 adults across the UK who have Parkinson’s.
Andrea said: “Parkinson’s has a huge impact on people’s lives and I feel helpless knowing my mum has to live with it, that is why I decided to organise this challenge. It’s a way to feel like I’m doing something useful raising funds and awareness.
“I don’t think the condition is talked about enough or that there’s enough awareness, hopefully my fundraising will support those having to live with the condition on a daily basis, as well as helping to find a cure for people like my mum.”
Parkinson’s UK, which was founded in 1969, is the leading charity exploring better treatment, care and quality of life for those affected by the condition.
The charity estimates there are more than 40 symptoms of the condition which include physical signs like muscle stiffness and tremors as well as mental signs such as depression, hallucinations and memory problems.
Parkinson’s UK head of events Katy Payne said: “We’d like to thank Andrea for taking on this epic challenge in support of her mum, it’s a brilliant way to raise awareness and highlight the huge number of people affected by the condition.
“The money raised will go directly towards supporting people with Parkinson’s and our pioneering research to find a cure, we couldn’t do out work without our amazing fundraisers like Andrea and we’re very grateful.”
For those interested in helping support those affected by the condition and to raise money for the charities work, there are a number of ways to get involved but more importantly for the charity they are pleading for an increase in the public’s awareness of the problem.
Katy said: “As well as fundraising, there are lots of ways to get involved with our work to improve the lives of everyone affected by Parkinson’s. If everyone took just 5 minutes to learn more about the condition, it could make a huge difference to people with the condition.”
Amy, who has already completed the Paris marathon, Edinburgh marathon, the Hackney Half marathon, and the Vitality Big Half, will complete the rest of her journey in this year and support for her cause can be given here.
