A woman from Beeston will take on a 12-hour boxing challenge to raise vital funds for charity Parkinson’s UK.
Janet Barnes, 49, will be throwing punches alongside her two friends Caroline and Genie, which they hope will also raise awareness of Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world. It affects around 145,000 people in the UK including approximately 10,256 in the East Midlands. There are more than 40 symptoms from pain and tremor to anxiety, but it affects everyone differently.
The challenge – which will take place when COVID-19 restrictions allow – is particularly important to Janet, as she was diagnosed with the condition in September 2018. The trio are determined to connect those affected by the condition around the world in a positive way, and are also asking people to get involved in the challenge via Zoom.
The challenge will require either Janet, Caroline or Genie to be in the boxing ring throwing punches at all times. Coached and supported by Maxine and Christian Smith from Resurrection Mixed Martial Arts Academy, their aim is to have 300 boxers from 10 different countries join in with them virtually along the way. Janet, along with friends who also have Parkinson’s, currently enjoy online boxing training with Maxine and Christian, which has been specifically designed for those affected by the condition. Exercise can be as important as medication in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Janet said: “We want this event to celebrate what people with Parkinson’s can do, rather than what they can’t. Exercise plays a vital part in managing the condition, and boxing training is a great help, both physically and mentally. We hope lots of people, regardless of their physical ability, will tune into the event and throw some air punches at Parkinson’s, keeping our spirits high throughout the 12 hours. “It’s going to be tough for us all, but Caroline, Genie and I will be working to a training programme devised by Maxine to prepare us. We’re hoping to raise vital funds for Parkinson’s research by asking people who join us to donate £15.”
Ann Rowe, Head of Regional Fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, said: “We are so grateful to Janet, Caroline and Genie for their support of Parkinson’s UK. “With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough.
“The money raised will help us drive forward the groundbreaking research we need to transform the lives of people affected by the condition.”
To donate to Janet’s fundraising please visit:
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/janet-barnes10
To find out more and get involved contact Janet on 07904 067160 or email: janetm[email protected]