AN OSWESTRY author has written a book to raise money to help in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.

Simon Jackson has written the book to raise vital funds for the Parkinson’s UK charity.

Simon was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2015, and his book “Walking from Home” describes twelve long walks starting from his home in the Welsh borders.

The book explores the landscape and the natural world encountered, as well as the history of this much-loved corner of the borders.

The 64-year-old’s diagnosis of the serious neurological condition was the inspiration for the walks featured in his book and says regular exercise like vigorous walking helps him to manage his symptoms.

After his diagnosis, Simon set himself a target of doing twelve long walks over a year, and he’s since completed a walking trip to the Alps, as well as taking up running at his local Park Run on Saturdays.

Simon said: “One learns quickly enough that Parkinson’s has many more symptoms than the ones everyone associates it with, such as tremors and shuffling when walking.

“I have trouble swallowing and eating, my voice is losing its strength, and I’ve lost my sense of smell.

“I also struggle with facial movement meaning I find it difficult to smile and use other expressions.

“As well as this I have lost the strength on my right side and I have occasional issues with balance and spatial awareness.

“Like many other people with Parkinson’s I have trouble sleeping and with fatigue.

“Psychologically the diagnosis is devastating. Whilst I have come to terms with it, never a day goes by without thinking about the diagnosis and what the future holds.

“What I do know is that I want to focus on what I can do, rather than what I can’t do. This principle has encouraged me to take on as much exercise I can, and my target of doing twelve long walks and putting my experiences into a book is a way of achieving this.

“I feel sure that regular exercise will help delay the onset of more severe symptoms, and it has really helped to improve my general wellbeing.”

Simon’s book ‘Walking from Home’ was officially launched on March 15 at an event attended by over 100 people.

It is available to buy online at www.walkingfromhome.wales and costs £12.50 including post and packaging. At least £6 from each sale will be donated to Parkinson’s UK.