West Wickham resident Ed FitzGerald, who lives with Parkinson’s, will be running TCS London Marathon on Sunday 27 April for the research charity Cure Parkinson’s, and has raised an absolutely phenomenal £18,190 for the charity so far!
Ed’s wife, Abby, first noticed his Parkinson’s symptoms when they were out running together, spotting that Ed’s arm wouldn’t swing when he ran. Having always been an active person, when Ed was officially diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2023 he was concerned that the condition would restrict him from doing the activities he loves, like walking, running, cycling and swimming. However, he has since found that staying active has helped him to manage his symptoms, and so he decided to fulfil a dream of running the London Marathon whilst raising funds for a cause close to his heart. Ed said:
“I was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s in December 2023. Helen Matthews and the team at Cure Parkinson’s were very supportive in the early days, so I wanted to give something back in return. Plus I’m keen the charity lives up to its name, selfishly for me, but also for people around the world afflicted by this condition.”
Despite being a keen runner, Ed has been following a training plan to make sure he is prepared for the epic 26.2 mile race. Fitting his training schedule around his family and work life, he’s even been making sure he gets the miles in on his morning commute, getting off his train around half way to the office and running the rest of the way.
Cure Parkinson’s is extremely grateful to Ed for raising funds in support of our vital Parkinson’s research. Helen Matthews, CEO, said:
“Our London Marathon runners are amazing and we cannot thank them enough. Their commitment to the training, fundraising and of course the gruelling run on the day is inspirational. Some of our runners have Parkinson’s – so this really is an amazing achievement. The money they raise helps support Cure Parkinson’s research into treatments that could slow, stop or reverse Parkinson’s.”
If you would like to donate to Ed’s London Marathon challenge please head to: https://www.justgiving.com/page/ed-fitzgerald-1721573914192
