Staffordshire mum diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 34 to take part in charity walk with family

A Staffordshire mum who was diagnosed with young on-set Parkinson’s disease is preparing to take part in a charity walk.

Megan Keogh, from Staffordshire, was diagnosed aged 34.

Ms Keogh said the diagnosis in 2024 was a “huge shock” and she is now preparing to take part in the Walk for Parkinson’s at Cannock Chase on June 6.

She is planning to complete the 1.6-mile charity walk alongside her seven-year-old daughter, Ada-Annie, and other family members to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK’s Nurse Appeal.

The appeal is aiming to raise £9 million to fund Parkinson's nurses and other specialists.

Ms Keogh explained that despite being diagnosed in 2024, her symptoms first began seven years earlier while she was pregnant with Ada-Annie.

She said: “It was a huge shock. There wasn’t a meeting or phone call - just a letter. The months that followed were filled with fear, sadness and uncertainty.

“I had weeks of knowing I had Parkinson’s but without proper support or medication. I felt very alone.

“Since being in touch with my Parkinson’s nurse, she has been incredible. I can call her when I need to. She listens, explains things clearly and helps me understand how to manage my symptoms and daily life.

“After such a difficult start, having that consistent specialist support has made an enormous difference.”

Parkinson's disease is a complex brain condition that gets worse over time. It has more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is no cure.

Alison Cope, West Midlands community fundraiser at Parkinson’s UK, said: “It’s inspiring to have people like Megan sign up to support Walk for Parkinson’s to help raise money for the Parkinson’s Nurse Appeal.

“We hope as many people as possible will come along to take part in the walk, which promises to be lots of fun. We already have close to 200 walkers signed up, and lots of lovely volunteers to support the smooth running of the event.

“We are grateful to our sponsors Penkridge Round table for their support.”

To support Megan and make a donation, visit events.parkinsons.org.uk/fundraisers/MeganKeogh and to find out more about Walk for Parkinson’s Staffordshire or sign up to walk visit events.parkinsons.org.uk/event/walk-parkinsons-staffordshire/home or email [email protected].