Share and Follow
After he announced his Parkinson’s diagnosis in May 2021, Jeremy Paxman has revealed the disease “makes you wish you hadn’t been born” in a heartbreaking claim. The 73-year-old began presenting the Movers and Shakers podcast in February 2023, which discusses the challenges of living with the disease.
The Newsnight host delivered a list of recommendations about the condition to Downing Street to mark World Parkinson’s Day, as well as a petition with thousands of names on it.
As well as Jeremy, the podcast also features BBC Journalist Rory Cellan-Jones, BBC North America editor Mark Mardell, correspondent Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Princess Diana’s divorce barrister Sir Nick Mostyn and Victor of Dibley co-writer Paul Mayhew-Archer.
The list of recommendations which is known as The Parky Charter has five key recommendations, the first being that those suffering from the disease are offered swift access to specialists under the NHS. The second is to introduce a Parkinson’s UK pamphlet to raise awareness and support while the third is the implementation of a Parkinson’s passport which gives entitlement to specific benefits.
As well as these, The Parky Charter also asks for improved comprehensive care including regular consultations and more Government funding to find a cure for the disease.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has praised the charter and said he is: “Very supportive of the excellent work that the Movers and Shakers do and the charter will rightfully receive the attention it deserves”.
Despite all of his best efforts, the former University Challenge host believes both the charter and petition will have “no effect whatsoever” on the Government.
He explained: “The fact that they (the Government) have ignored all their responsibilities to date indicates to me that they’re not going to get any better.
“And I suspect that the form of words devised by the Ministry of Health will confirm that.
“I don’t think we’re going to get anywhere. You feel like you’re banging your head against a brick wall.”
The BBC star went on to add: “(Parkinson’s) may not kill you but it will make you wish you hadn’t been born.
“There’s nothing in it for the drug companies, it’s just more money for them.”
Following his diagnosis of Parkinson’s in May 2021, the television personality was forced to step down from his role as host of University Challenge.
Share and Follow
Source: NewsFinale
