Lorraine Kelly backs University’s Parkinson’s campaign

Lorraine Kelly has a sent a video message in support of all those taking part in the 30 Days Challenge campaign to fund life-saving research into Parkinson’s disease.

The challenge has already raised over £20,000 for Parkinson’s research with staff and students walking, running, cycling, baking and even hula hooping every day throughout June.

Lorraine Kelly, who was elected University Rector in 2004 has sent a message of support and encouragement to all those taking part.

“Across the UK, over 100,000 people live with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's impacts the most basic functions including walking, balance and of course, speech”, said Lorraine

“While treatment options are limited and there is currently no cure, but scientists at the University of Dundee are working so very hard to change this.

“Throughout June, dozens of staff students and people impacted by Parkinson's are taking part in the University of Dundee's 30 days challenge to raise funds for the University World leading research into Parkinson's Disease by cycling, swimming, running baking, hula hooping, painting, along with a whole host of other activities.

“They're raising money which will help to transform the lives of people with Parkinson's disease. So I wish the Parkinson's challengers the very best of luck and would encourage everybody who's watching to donate.”

Parkinson’s disease is a disabling neurodegenerative illness which has no cure and no way of being slowed down. The most successful drug to manage Parkinson’s – Levodopa - was developed 60 years ago, but since then there has been no major breakthrough in the management or treatment of the disease. 

Every week, 30 people in Scotland are diagnosed with Parkinson’s, which is why the University has launched it’s 30 Days Challenge. Taking place from June 1, people have been asked to do something tiring, inspiring, relaxing, funny, or unique on each of the 30 days in June, to raise at least £120 for the Dundee Parkinson’s Research Campaign.

The University of Dundee is a leading centre for Parkinson’s research, hosting world-renowned experts who are dedicated to improving our understanding of the condition. Their efforts are backed by the Dundee Parkinson’s Research Campaign, which was launched in 2019 to establish Dundee as the global centre for Parkinson’s research.

A deep brain ultrasound treatment that can transform the quality of life for people with uncontrollable tremors has been made available in Scotland for the first time. Initial research suggests it may also have a role in treating the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. If you would like to help more people to benefit from this life changing treatment please donate to our appeal Incisionless Brain Surgery. 

Lorraine’s video message can be viewed here.

Anybody wishing to donate, can do so via the event’s JustGiving page.