We're back in the Notting Hill pub for our final episode of 2024. And after some rather gloomy subjects in recent weeks – from caring responsibilities to assisted dying – the Movers and Shakers are turning their attention to something a little more optimistic. With contributions from listeners – and a couple of special guests – this episode looks at the reasons all Parkies have to be cheerful. Whether that's defying the condition or embracing it, there's always a silver lining to be found.
By Podot
Each week Rory Cellan-Jones guides us between the laughs and moans in the pub. To read Rory's summary of this week's episode click here.
Guest Biographies
Emma Lawton
Emma was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the age of 29. Making it her mission to raise awareness about the condition and continue her life as she planned, Emma set out to find a new normal and in the process found she liked her life better than before. She’s keen to shine a light on the importance of investing in our own development and happiness and believes that the word ‘stubborn’ should be rebranded to be a positive trait.
These days Emma does things she’s excited about with people she admires and finds it increasingly difficult to give herself a title which she loves and has always been a goal in her life. However, Emma is in actual fact a flourishing entrepreneur who started her own tech startup business four years ago and now helps other startups and individuals in a mentor role. She's also an Advisor for LikeMinds, who are enabling the early detection of Parkinson's disease and Lewy Body dementia.
Gaynor Edwards
Gaynor is the founder of Spotlight YOPD - the first charity globally to focus on Parkinson's as diagnosed in people under 50. Spotlight YOPD was registered as a charity in January 2016, just a little over three years after Gaynor herself was diagnosed at the age of 42. She previously played a crucial role as CEO until stepping into her role as Patron in 2023.
Gaynor trained as a journalist at the London College of Printing before working as an editor and sub-editor on numerous publications. She went on to run a PR agency in Tunbridge Wells. Now 13 years post diagnosis, she has first hand experience in how PD impacts on health, wealth (especially with help from Covid) and happiness.
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