Vicky Rees-Davies, at 50, has turned her Parkinson's diagnosis into a catalyst for gratitude and positive change.
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During a walk with her dog in 2020, Vicky's husband noticed her left foot dragging, which she initially attributed to fatigue. However, while dancing at the gym, she realized she was struggling with moves on her left side. A Google search pointed to serious illness, and at 47, she was diagnosed with Parkinson's.
Familiar with the disease from her family's history, Vicky sought medical advice and later received her diagnosis. Despite the shock, she chose to maintain a positive attitude, focusing on her blessings.
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Vicky was disappointed to find no support group information in her diagnosis letter, which motivated her to become a support herself. She reached out to charities, joined support groups, and began sharing her experiences with others facing Parkinson's.
Understanding the benefits of exercise for Parkinson's, Vicky, a personal trainer, started tailor-made exercise sessions for those with the condition and participated in fundraising activities, including a skydive and a marathon for Parkinson's UK.
Vicky emphasizes the importance of muscle strength for balance and bone health, incorporating strength training in her classes with kettlebells and dumbbells for Parkinson's UK.
Her weekly classes and personal training sessions aim to release endorphins and improve well-being for those with Parkinson's. Vicky believes that her personal experience with the disease allows her to relate to and support others more effectively.
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Vicky aims to reassure those diagnosed with Parkinson's that they are not alone and that a fulfilling life is still possible. She hopes to inspire others through her marathon participation and show that anything is achievable.
Vicky expresses that her diagnosis has changed her life perspective, helping her value life more and prioritize correctly. She encourages others to take small steps to navigate their