What has Parkinson's ever done for me? NOTHING
Philippe's 226 Blog April 2025
What has this incurable, progressive, debilitating neurological condition ever done for me?
……… NOTHING
Hang on, if you think about it, without Parkinson's I wouldn't be working with Strolll on their ground-breaking, innovative technology which is already proving to be life changing for People with Parkinson's (PWP).
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OK, apart from Strolll, what has Parkinson's done for me? Nothing!
On reflection, I do now sit on an NHS Steering Group providing governance on the implementation on tech for Parkinson's and other neurological conditions – a great opportunity to contribute some life-long learned skills.
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OK, apart from Strolll and the NHS relationships, what has Parkinson's done for me? Nothing!
Well, I suppose I am now a Social Media Influencer (@226philippe) – not a clue what I'm doing on Instagram but Michael is supporting and occasionally telling me off for not listening to his advice.
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OK, apart from Strolll, the NHS, and the fact that I am a social media sensation 😊, what has Parkinson's ever done for me? Nothing!
Well there's my book, which had basically stumbled unsatisfactorily to a halt a couple of years ago, but came back to life when the self-publicist in me spotted the opportunity to bring the story to a nice positive conclusion.
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OK, apart from Strolll, the NHS, Internet sensation, my book, what has ……. you get the picture ……
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Ironman Wales – I have finished what is arguably the hardest one-day swim, bike and run endurance event in the world five times (2011 – 2015). Without Parkinson's, I would have left it there, but I am now super motivated to experience "Land of my father's" on Tenby North Beach just one more time on 21st September 2025 …… there will be tears.
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Leeds Rhino's Foundation – A weekly workout at Headingley Stadium with new friends (PWP) plus a social opportunity to share experiences and ideas.
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Parkinson's Table Tennis World Championships – An opportunity to take part in my second world championships …….. did I tell you I raced in the Ironman World Championships ?......... yeah! Of course I did!
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Being part of something special. Including Movers and Shakers, the Parky Charter and the Michael J Fox Foundation ….. all of these are increasing the momentum towards a cure for Parkinson's and creating a louder Parkinson's voice in the UK and worldwide. We will win!
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New friends who I know will be there for me as I will be there for them, and a supportive network of existing friends / former colleagues which spreads way beyond where I could have ever imagined. Thank you for the many, many kind messages of support.
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Through blogging and motivational speaking, I have a chance to make a difference by inspiring people with Parkinson's, demonstrating that diagnosis is not a death sentence.
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A chance to enjoy life and thrive before Parky grabs me, I am truly blessed.
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OK, apart from Strolll, NHS, social media, the book, Ironman Wales, Leeds Rhinos, the World Championships, being part of something special, amazing supportive friendships, a chance to make a difference and a special opportunity to enjoy every day …….. what has Parkinson's ever done for me? NOTHING!