Bob is Bob. When he has a passion for something, he absolutely gets stuck in.
When Bob was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s, the nurse suggested he attended the Uttlesford Parkinson’s group which is headed up by Paul Goddard. It was, and remains, a fabulous group for anyone who has been diagnosed with the long-term health condition, to socialise, share experiences and stay active. After a while, it was decided that the group should become more formal and Bob was nominated as treasurer; making it his personal challenge to positively impact the group with his financial choices.
He was able to secure a physical activity grant from Active Uttlesford, one of Active Essex’s local networks, allowing the group to hold weekly sessions of Nordic Walking and Tai Chi. The group then formally became known as Active with Parkinson’s.
Janice, Bob’s wife said: “Bob’s passion and determination, along with other committee members, has been key in developing Active with Parkinson’s. He always strives to do the best he can and puts everything into it. It’s a real strength that he has.”
Active with Parkinson’s is a special place where people can share, gain reassurance and take confidence that they are not facing this challenge alone. Regardless where members are on their Parkinson’s journey they strive to remain as active as physically possible and Bob has had an instrumental part in securing their financial future.
Like many groups and organisations, the current pandemic put strain on their finances, but Bob didn’t remain passive for long. After hearing of the Sport England Tackling Inequalities fund, helping support groups who were providing physical activity for those with long term health conditions, Bob ensured Active with Parkinson’s were amongst the successful applicants. Despite several individuals shielding, and not able to return to the class, the group activities were taken online, and weekly Zoom sessions are held to make sure participants remain active whilst at home.
Paul Goddard, Neurological Rehabilitation Therapist for Active with Parkinson’s said: “Bob without a doubt has indirectly helped the 25 members of Active with Parkinson’s to get and remain physically active. He is always at the end of the phone, always looking for new ways to secure funding, continually writing to local council’s for support and regardless of his condition he still pulls it all together. It is a privilege to work with the Active with Parkinson’s group but the One in a Million award is absolutely fitting for Bob and truly well deserved.”
