That decision was the start of a journey that led to him being awarded a BEM. “I was surprised but this is not for me – it is for everyone in the West Cumbria branch of the Parkinson’s Society and the many who work so hard,” he said. It is unlikely that many have worked quite so hard, however. John joined the branch after being diagnosed and became chairman in 2008 – a position he has held ever since. He has spoken to thousands of people, raising awareness of the disease. And he has also raised around £150,000 from sports dinners which he organised.
That decision was the start of a journey that led to him being awarded a BEM. “I was surprised but this is not for me – it is for everyone in the West Cumbria branch of the Parkinson’s Society and the many who work so hard,” he said. It is unlikely that many have worked quite so hard, however. John joined the branch after being diagnosed and became chairman in 2008 – a position he has held ever since. He has spoken to thousands of people, raising awareness of the disease. And he has also raised around £150,000 from sports dinners which he organised.