Breaking News … New Parkinson’s Specialist Nurses

We have been told that the funding for the specialist nurses (25 nationally) from last year’s budget has been allocated. The great news is that 6 are for Parkinson’s with 1 Parkinson’s specialist nurse for CUH. This is the outcome of the “Patients Deserve Better” campaign.

A huge ‘thank you’ to all involved, especially those who travelled with us on the ‘Rebel Express’ to the Dail last June and those from other groups who joined us outside Leinster House to hammer home our message. Special thanks to Richelle Flanagan and Gary Boyle for their constant support and advocacy and for sharing their stories in the AV room. You made the difference, our efforts paid off.

Planning a holiday?

Parkinson’s Europe has published a very useful guide to planning a holiday. This includes general tips such as Medication, Insurance, Accommodation, Transportation etc. It is a good idea to also bring your PAI Parkinson’s passport with you. Click here for more information.

Symbyx PD Laser Care

You can now purchase the Laser Care unit through the www.corkparkinsons.ie website. Contact me for the promotional code to get your 10% discount. Dr Wayne Markman, co-founder and CEO of Symbyx will be visiting Cork in July after the World Parkinson’s Congress in Barcelona.

There will be a number of ‘Town Hall’ events in the city which will be open to everyone. More information will be available on our website, social media and in our weekly Cork Connect update email.

The Duhallow Vintage Club will be at the famous Mallow Home & Garden Festival on May 26, 27 and 28. They will be promoting Parkinson’s awareness and fundraising for Cork Parkinson’s. Pencil it into your diary as this is always a fantastic event.

 Siobhan Buckley memorial climb

David and Aidan Buckley are doing a memorial climb of Mushera Mountain on May 27^th in memory of their mother Siobhan who many of us will remember fondly. Proceeds will be split between CPA and Marymount Hospice. Click here to support or to find out more.

 Cork City Marathon

A number of people have contacted us wishing to raise funds for CPA by competing in the marathon in June. Anyone wishing to run for CPA can wear one of our CPA “Rebel with a Cause” T-Shirts to raise awareness as well as funds.

 Super new fundraising challenge – Driving Parkinson’s Awareness

CPA members, Kevin and Mary O’Donovan, have come up with a fantastic idea to raise funds for us and to drive awareness of Parkinson’s. In brief, Kevin plus 3 more drivers will visit each GAA county stadium in the 32 counties over a 24-hour + period. This is not about speed and has been cleared by the Gardai! Finbarr Galvin Bandon are sponsoring the car below. We are still at the planning stage and more information will follow.

 Weekly Set Dancing in Ballinhassig

On Tuesday 23^rd there will not be any set dancing as Fionan has another commitment. However, Tim Browne will give a talk on nutrition.  We had great feedback from Tim’s previous talk especially as he wasn’t ‘selling anything’ other than sharing great information. Bring a pen and paper so you can capture some hints and tips.

Perpetual Motion Choir  

Time: 7:30 to 9:00

Day: Mondays

We meet at “The Church of the Immaculate Conception”, The Lough every Monday evening. It is a great venue with plenty of parking. Everyone is welcome and it is a very enjoyable way to exercise your voice and keep it strong. There was a great turnout last week, see you all tomorrow!

Respite care for PWPs

We often get calls from our members enquiring about respite care for PWPs. We have been looking into this for a while with special emphasis on finding someplace that caters specifically for neurological conditions.

We will share more information on this in the coming weeks.

CUH Parkinson’s advice line

Don’t forget the new Parkinson’s advice line for Cork with specialist nurse Jill Murphy in CUH. It can be accessed on Mondays and Thursdays between 9.00am and 1pm. The number is 021 4234495. This is only for people who attend CUH, otherwise contact Lisa Wynne the PAI nurse on 1800 359 359.

Lots happening!

Cheers – Tony