Fundraisers to take the plunge for Parkinson's research cash
A hardy group of 12 volunteers to swim 5,000 metres from Gosport to Ryde on the Isle of Wight as part of a Solent challenge which also includes a parallel 5k pool event which people can complete over four months for the same cause
A GROUP of selfless swimmers is set to brave the water between Gosport and the Isle of Wight to raise funds for Parkinson’s research.
The Positively Parkinson’s Solent Swim Challenge will take place on Sunday having been postponed previously due to the Covid-19 pandemic and adverse weather conditions.
All cash raised by the 12 participants – who will swim 5,000 metres from Gosport to Ryde – will go towards the Cure Parkinson’s charity.
It comes as part of a set of two swimming fundraisers that includes a 5k swimming pool challenge, which participates can complete over a period of four months.
So far sponsorship for both has raised £35,000 out of a £40,000 goal.
Helen Matthews, the deputy chief executive officer of Cure Parkinson’s, said:
‘We are so grateful to Peter, Vicky and all involved in this incredible swim challenge.
‘Fundraising support through events like the Positively Parkinson’s Swim Challenge is absolutely critical for us to achieve our goal.’ All swimmers taking part in the Solent Swim Challenge have some personal link to Parkinson’s.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition, which involves the loss of dopamine producing cells in the brain which controls movement and mood. While it is a lifelong progressive disease exercise, including swimming, plays an increasingly important part in the treatment of the condition and complements medication.
To donate visit justgiving.com/campaign/ positivelyparkinsonsswimchallenge2020
Or to find out more email info@positivelyparkinsons. co.uk.