A trio from West Midlands have braved the shave and raised over £1,200 for charity Parkinson’s UK.

Elijah Chamberlain-Page, his girlfriend, Jess Howells, and twin Finn took to Brierley Hill Market to get their long locks shaved off. The headshave was inspired by Elijah and Finn’s grandad, Roger, who died earlier this year and had been living with the condition. 

 

Elijah, 20, said: “Growing up, Grandad used to take us out every Saturday. But when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s over lockdown, his health started to deteriorate and daily tasks became a struggle. He had a lot of mobility issues, and he struggled to walk without his walking stick or walk up and down stairs.”

Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, and currently there is no cure. It affects around 145,000 people in the UK and every hour two more people are diagnosed.

There are over 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety. Parkinson’s UK is the largest charitable funder of Parkinson’s research in Europe, leading the way to better treatments and a cure. 

Elijah continued: “Grandad was brilliant, he was like a second father to us. I know he’d be really proud of us for taking on this challenge and raising funds for Parkinson’s UK in his memory. We really hope that the funds raised make a difference and go towards finding better treatments of a cure so people don’t suffer in the future like Grandad did.” 

Kirsty Berrigan and Rebecca Landolt, Heads of Regional Fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, said: “We are so grateful to Elijah, Jess, and Finn for taking on this incredible challenge for Parkinson’s UK. With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough.

“We hope that this fundraising challenge inspires you to get involved with Parkinson’s UK. There are lots of ways for you to get involved and support us - from volunteering at an event, to campaigning for better services. Without the generosity of people like you, our work would not be possible." To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK visit parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising.