Fundraiser Rory treks Everest after Parkinson’s diagnosis
Fundraiser Rory treks Everest after Parkinson’s diagnosis
19 August 2022
In September 2020, Rory O’Neill was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease – a condition that affects the brain and causes movement problems. There is no history in his family of the disease.
“Being told I had Parkinson's was of course a complete shock and came out of the blue,” said Rory. “It's very difficult to explain how I felt initially. I think at first it didn't really register with me what my consultant at Charing Cross Hospital, Dr Angus Kennedy, was telling me.
“But I gradually educated myself on the condition and my wife Janine was also a great source of information.”
Four months before his diagnosis, Rory had planned to trek to Everest Base Camp with his neighbour after the end of the Covid-19 lockdown.
But Rory’s confidence took a sudden hit after hearing the concerning news about his health.
“I had almost talked myself out of this amazing adventure,” Rory explained “However, everyone around me was encouraging me to take on the challenge and when Dr Kennedy gave me the green light, I was fully engaged in the trek and even more determined than before.”
In May 2022, Rory climbed over 17,500 feet to Everest Base Camp with UK company Evertrek and raised an incredible £13,301 for Imperial Health Charity.
Rory added: “The trek went well, I'm glad to say. The days were long and there were moments when I had to dig deep and find that something to get me through that last hour of a six or seven hour trek.
“To train for the trek I simply walked and walked. But nothing can prepare you for how the altitude will affect you -you just have to deal with it when it happens.”
"I decided I have this disease now and if I could do anything to help find a cure or help discover a new ground-breaking drug that would slow the progression of Parkinson's, then I had to do my part."
Rory O'Neill
Rory’s fantastic fundraising efforts will be directed towards vital Parkinson’s disease research at Charing Cross Hospital.
Rory said: “I wanted to help - to make a difference. I decided I have this disease now and if I could do anything to help find a cure or help discover a new ground-breaking drug that would slow the progression of Parkinson's, then I had to do my part.
“I feel very proud and delighted to raise funds for research - it's wonderful to have amazing professionals and fantastic support at my disposal. Everyone is so knowledgeable and caring.
“Sadly, my reality is that having climbed to Everest Base Camp four months ago, I’m not confident I could conquer it today. That’s how much my Parkinson’s disease has advanced in that short space of time. The research is vital for me, and other Parkinson’s disease sufferers. ”
You can sign up to a fundraising event and support a ward or department at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust here.
