This time 22 participants attended – 18 people with Parkinson’s and 4 partners.
The delegates were of working-age and travelled from as far apart as Birmingham, Bury St Edmunds, Bristol and Brighton.
Everyone said they really valued the opportunity to meet and build friendships – some said that it was the first time they had ever been able to talk openly to others of a similar age who share their experiences.
The agenda was packed with exercise sessions and social activities as well as presentations and workshops. For the first time delegates were offered 1:1 meetings with a benefits adviser, a Parkinson’s nurse and a psychologist which proved very valuable.
Highlights of the weekend were the exercise sessions but people were surprised how much they enjoyed the singing and dancing programmes too.
The talks on exercise and neuroplasticity, the workshop on psychological wellbeing and the sessions on technology and devices were highly praised. Also the sessions on Parkinson’s medication, sleep management and research were particularly well received by participants.
Direct quotes from the participants’ feedback forms included the following:
- Exercise sessions were brilliant. The neuroplasticity and research sessions were very informative.
- The whole weekend had an upbeat, positive approach and provided us the opportunity to laugh.
- It was well structured. I loved the dance class. It was good to spend time with contemporaries. Brilliant!
- The weekend will be very helpful as I manage my Parkinson’s in the future. A tremendous amount of information was provided to aid personal adjustment in future.
- I enjoyed the opportunity to learn about how technology can help.
- Social activities were great, especially the singing and dancing – I forgot I had Parkinson’s.
- All working-age PwP should attend Fighting Fit.
People said that they really liked being in a residential, wellness setting for two days with good facilities including a gym and swimming pool.
Fighting Fit is an innovative residential weekend programme for younger and working-age people with Parkinson’s that encourages self-management. The aim is to provide information and sign-posting, to share experiences and discuss the practical and emotional impact of living and working with Parkinson’s.
If you want to find out more, you can either contact us, or sign up to our newsletter which will provide you with updates and news about this exciting opportunity.