Former Teesside engineer talks Parkinson’s battle, ‘invaluable’ support and 100-mile challenge

A “dedicated” Teessider has walked 100-miles for a charity close to his heart.

Ex-engineer Adrian Wrigley first experienced symptoms of Parkinson’s in 2016. The Billingham man was diagnosed in 2021 and since then has made a huge effort to stay active and raise awareness of the condition.

The 56-year-old retired from his role as a chief engineer at sea in 2022 and is committed to managing his symptoms through regular exercise and keeping a positive attitude. Starting in February, Adrian committed himself to daily walks, with the goal of completing at least five miles per day.

Starting in February, Adrian committed himself to daily walks, with the goal of completing at least five miles per day. However, he managed to achieve over eight miles a day (approximately 250 miles per month) as part of the Walk for Parkinson’s 100 Mile Challenge, which he completed at the end of May. Having initially set a target of £300, he has far surpassed this and raised over £3,000.

Adrian said: “I took part in Walk for Parkinson’s 100 Mile Challenge to fund Parkinson’s UK’s groundbreaking research into better treatments and a cure, as well as to support the local Tees Valley Parkinson support group. Hopefully, it will show people with Parkinson’s that keeping active is a positive thing to do.”

“As well as myself having Parkinson’s, my grandmother and father-in-law also experienced the condition,” Adrian added. “Their limited access to support compared to what’s available today highlights the importance of organisations like Parkinson’s UK and local support groups.

“My wife and family are a great support to me and my involvement with the Tees Valley Parkinson Support Group, along with the assistance from local advisers and Parkinson’s nurses, has truly been invaluable.” Beyond personal triumph, Adrian’s wants to bring awareness to Parkinson’s and hopes that the money raised will continue to contribute towards vital research and support services.

‘Parkinson’s can devastate lives’

Sam Johnston, Community Fundraiser for North East & Cumbria at Parkinson’s UK, said: “Adrian’s dedication to walking every day and completing this challenge is a true testament of his character and determination to show others that keeping active with Parkinson’s has great benefits. We’re very grateful to Adrian for showing his continuous support for the charity and his efforts highlight the power of community fundraising in driving forward vital research and support services for people affected by Parkinson’s.