Ballymena Walking for Health Group bolsters local support for Parkinson’s UK with £2500 donation

Representative of the Ballymena Walking Group pictured handing over a cheque for £2500 to Vice-Chair of the Ballymena and District Branch, Martin Mann and Treasurer, Ann Hill, following a meal at the Leighinmohr House Hotel

The Ballymena Walking for Health Group has proudly donated £2500 to the Ballymena and District Branch of Parkinson’s UK, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to community support and charitable giving.

This generous contribution is set to enhance local initiatives aimed at helping those living with Parkinson’s, a neurological condition affecting thousands in the region.

A Tradition of Community Engagement

The Ballymena Walking for Health Group, known for its weekly Wednesday walks at various local sites and an annual four-day walking excursion – this year in the picturesque Newry and Boyne Valley area – has once again demonstrated its dedication to meaningful causes.

Every year, the group selects a local charity to support through their fundraising activities. For 2025, the Ballymena and District Branch of Parkinson’s UK was chosen as the beneficiary.

Harold McKinney, Chair of the walking group, emphasised their commitment to the cause, stating,

“We are delighted to choose the Parkinson’s UK Ballymena and District Branch as this year’s beneficiary as they support so many people living with Parkinson’s in the local area.”

Strengthening Local Services and Support

The donation is expected to make a significant impact on the charity’s capacity to deliver essential services and support to local residents affected by Parkinson’s.

The Ballymena and District Branch of Parkinson’s UK is a volunteer-led organisation that provides valuable support through exercise classes and monthly support sessions, which many participants have found particularly beneficial.

Jimmy McClean, Chair of the Ballymena and District Branch, expressed his gratitude for the generous donation, remarking,

“We are so grateful to Harold and all of the walking group members for their generous donation, which will help people living with Parkinson’s across Ballymena and the district. We are a volunteer-led support group and fundraising helps us to deliver exercise classes and monthly support sessions, which the participants find really beneficial.”

Martin Mann, Vice-Chair of the branch, added,

“This generous contribution will go a long way in supporting our local initiatives, ensuring that those living with Parkinson’s receive the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need.”

An Invitation to the Community

The Ballymena and District Branch of Parkinson’s UK routinely hosts support group meetings on the third Friday of each month at the Ballymena North Business Centre, located at 120 Cushendall Road, Ballymena, from 3.00 to 4.30pm.

These gatherings offer a welcoming environment for anyone affected by Parkinson’s, providing not only support but also opportunities to learn about the condition.

The branch is actively seeking new volunteers to help with various roles in delivering these vital services.

Those interested in giving back to their local community are encouraged to contact Jimmy McClean for further details. Inquiries can be directed via email at jimmy.mcclean@outlook.com or by phone on 028 2564 8398 / 07826 336698.

Supporting a Broader Mission

Parkinson’s is a complex brain condition that progressively worsens over time and is currently the fastest growing neurological disorder worldwide. In the UK alone, the condition affects approximately 153,000 people, including over 4,200 individuals in Northern Ireland.

Parkinson’s UK, the leading charity dedicated to supporting those affected, works relentlessly by campaigning for better healthcare, funding research into new treatments, and facilitating life-changing support services.

This recent contribution from the Ballymena Walking for Health Group underscores the importance of community involvement in addressing the challenges posed by this condition.

With this substantial donation, local initiatives can continue to enhance the quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s, ensuring that resources, guidance, and regular support remain available to those in need.