Actor Tom Hickey leads the way to city’s Parkinson’s Day

IRISH actor Tom Hickey is encouraging members of the public to plan a journey to Dublin’s historic Merrion Square on April 11 next and support World Parkinson’s Day by participating in an awareness-raising Unity Walk.

Tom, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2013, joined members of the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland (PAI) to issue the invitation.

He urged as many people as possible to make the journey into the capital next month by car, bus, Luas and train and show solidarity with the estimated 9,000 Irish people living with the condition.

This is the third year that the PAI have organised the Unity Walk and, for the first time, they are partnering with Move4Parkinson’s and PSPA Ireland to mark World Parkinson’s Day.

All three organisations hope to be joined by families and friends of people with Parkinson’s from all over the country in a show of solidarity and support for those diagnosed with the progressive neurological disorder.

Tom, the official ambassador for this year’s Unity Walk, is one of Ireland’s most successful stage actors. He is fondly remembered for his role as Benjy Riordan in RTE’s hugely popular television series

‘The Riordan’s’.

“It is vital for people to know the symptoms and to speak to their doctor if they have any concerns,

? he said.

“My diagnosis was very difficult, but with the support of family and friends I know I won’t be on this journey alone.

“I would encourage anyone with Parkinson’s disease to reach out to the PAI for support and to get your health on track.

“I hope everyone can make it on April 11 and join us to support people living with PD on this special day.

?

For more information, log on to www.parkinsons.ie