Testimonials

​David & Lorraine

May 2025

I was diagnosed 21 months ago and my Significant Other (Lorraine) and I had undertaken a lot of research into the various aspects of how to manage and where possible, slow progression.  We recently attended Fighting Fit in Cookham and found it a comprehensive introduction and overview to all aspects of Parkinson’s.

All our research was into ‘silos of information’, exercise, nutrition, research, medication, emotions, support networks, communication, resources, etc..  The FF weekend brought it all together and the holistic approach really tied up a lot of loose ends and answered many previously unknown, unasked and/or unanswered questions .

For me, the other big, big benefit was being in a social, un-pressured environment with others on the same journey and sharing experiences, anecdotes and the highs and lows along the way. For Lorraine, she found it most helpful to share her experience with other partners in similar situations.  It was very emotional and beneficial to understand that she was not alone.

Truly, we came away with a lot of new (or reinforced) information and with more confidence about our future, as well as meeting a bunch of other people with whom we have continued sharing information, experiences and ideas. The Fighting Fit weekend was definitely an investment in our future and I strongly recommend it to other PwP and their Significant Others.

​Steve S

March 2024

I had recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, so there was a lot that I wanted to know. The Fighting Fit weekend gave me everything I needed – there were sessions led by experts covering all the key topics, plus ‘taster’ classes for many types of exercise. Everyone was so friendly – we all mixed and shared our experiences. Informative, enjoyable and positive!

​Ruth A

September 2023

The Fighting Fit weekend has been absolutely key in my acceptance and education of all things Parkinson. I was apprehensive, but from the empathetic introductory phone call which addressed my concerns about attending Fighting Fit to the weekend itself, which was full of fun, practical advice and information, it has been life changing. We shared experiences and supported each other. We tried out activities such as yoga, dance, singing, Nordic walking and joined in with very high-quality presentations from professionals. All this support gave me so much knowledge and has enabled me to create my own action plan to move forward to improve my situation.

Hardika S

April 2022

A year after receiving my diagnosis, I was still trying to understand how to manage the impact that having Parkinson’s had on my day to day activities. A friend who had already been on the course suggested I should attend the next one that was on. I enjoyed the course and found the content very interesting and informative and have taken on board a number of ideas and suggestions that were discussed during the weekend. Would thoroughly recommend this course.

Simon W

Oct 2021

I attended Fighting Fit with my wife who has PD and I’d really urge anyone who has a partner or friend with the disease to attend the course. I was initially a bit sceptical about attending, but I am glad I did as I met others in the same situation and learnt how I can support my wife in the years ahead.

Eileen K

Nov 2019 & Nov 2021

Fighting Fit runs a great, action packed weekend, designed especially for People with Parkinson’s.  I have attended two weekends, which must say something about the course. The organisers have cleverly kept in key things, which worked well but have also included some new sections, in the second event. For anyone who’s contemplating attending – I can highly recommend it.

Keith & Val B

Oct 2019

Keith: I’ve had Parkinson’s for 10 years now, I thought I knew all there was to know about PD. During the FF weekend I heard experts talk about current thinking. I tried out different forms of exercise (PD Warrior, Tai Chi, Dancing) as well as singing. And I benefitted from being with so many positive, fun-loving, caring people.

Val: The Fighting Fit weekend is packed with information and positivity.  Partners can attend as well and work as a team going forward. It was so beneficial being with mentors, and two years on we continue to use tips that we learnt on the weekend.

Rosie B

Jul 2019

The Fighting Fit weekend was like a ‘crash course’ in all-things Parkinson’s. With a good balance of both practical and information sessions, it was a jam-packed time but also plenty of opportunity for chat and socialising over meals and at the bar. I found it very beneficial to meet with others of a similar age and stage of Parkinson’s. Definitely recommended!

Chris J

Mar 2019

Attending the Fighting Fit course was a milestone on my Parkinson’s journey. My diagnosis had been about year before and I was still getting my head round what it was all about. It was great to meet other people who were still working and living with Parkinson’s. The emphasis on exercise really inspired me, and as a result I have become a zealot for regular exercise. Nearly 3 years on from the course I am still working full time and flying the flag for Parkinson’s at work as well.

Kerry H

Nov 2018

I was one of the original group attending Fighting Fit in 2018. It was comforting to find others who could understand the frustrations of Parkinson’s and truly empathise. I have made some lovely friends and useful contacts and continue to find the whole experience incredibly worthwhile. Highly recommended.