John Stirling, a retired estates team member at St John’s Hospital in Livingston, living with Parkinson’s disease, is celebrating renewed independence, connection and confidence this World Parkinson’s Day (11 April), thanks to our dedicated Parkinson’s programme — led by the Xcite Health & Wellbeing team and developed in partnership with Parkinson’s UK.
The 69-year-old was diagnosed 18 months ago, and as a regular walker, he first noticed something was wrong when he started to slow down when out walking and began to shake.
Referred by his NHS physiotherapist, John joined our dedicated Parkinson’s programme in February. Developed in partnership with Parkinson’s UK, the programme is a series of free, specialist sessions designed to improve physical health, mobility and wellbeing for people living with the condition. A twelve-week programme, John has been a committed participant of the stationary cycling sessions at Xcite Bathgate and the Falls Prevention programme at Xcite Broxburn.
The impact on John’s physical and mental wellbeing has been transformative. John said: “The exercise has really helped. I’ve got a bad knee, but now I can climb stairs again without assistance. It was something I used to find really painful. I’m out walking more, driving, and generally able to do more things. The programme has made a huge difference.”
Just as valuable has been the sense of community. John added: “Meeting others with Parkinson’s helps. You’re not alone. You share experiences, support each other. There’s a real sense of togetherness.”
With over 13,000 people in Scotland living with Parkinson’s, a complex degenerative brain condition with over 40 possible symptoms including tremor, pain and anxiety, access to specialised support is critical.
Lisa Hunter, Xcite Health and Wellbeing Manager, said: “We’re delighted to hear how the programme has positively impacted John, and others who participated, making life a little bit easier. With Parkinson’s disease, there is no cure, but programmes like this one offer real, life enhancing benefits. Staying active can greatly improve people’s balance, mobility, coordination and overall quality of life, and this programme has been carefully developed in collaboration with individuals with lived experience of Parkinson’s.”
Amanda Mckay, Physical Activity Delivery Manager for Parkinson’s UK said: “Being physically active is hugely beneficial for everyone, but particularly for people living with Parkinson’s. It can help improve their balance, strength and coordination, as well as boosting their physical and mental wellbeing.
“It’s fantastic to hear about the positive impact the programme at Xcite West Lothian has had on John. We’d encourage anyone in the area living with Parkinson’s to give one of the sessions a try. It’s a great way to meet new people and help manage your condition.”
Our Parkinson’s programme is currently free to attend and welcomes new participants. It combines safe, tailored exercise with social connection and expert support, aiming to improve quality of life and build confidence. For more information on the programme click: here
To learn more about Parkinson’s or to access support, contact Parkinson’s UK at 0808 800 0303, a free confidential helpline, or visit www.parkinsons.org.uk.
