Staffordshire Mum Prepares for Charity Walk After Parkinson’s Diagnosis 

Megan Keogh at Walk for Parkinson’s in Birmingham last year with her daughter,
Ada-Annie
Megan Keogh is Taking Part in Walk for Parkinson’s at Cannock Chase to Support Specialist Care for Others. 

Staffordshire resident Megan Keogh is preparing to take part in Walk for Parkinson’s at Cannock Chase on Saturday 6th June 2026, after being diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s at the age of 34. 

Megan, 35, will walk alongside her seven-year-old daughter and family members to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK’s Nurse Appeal, which aims to raise £9 million to fund specialist nurses and support services. 

Parkinson’s specialists play a vital role in supporting the 166,000 people living with the condition in the UK. However, many people still face challenges accessing this expert care, making fundraising events like this especially important. 

Megan was diagnosed in September 2024, although her symptoms first began several years earlier while she was pregnant with her daughter, Ada-Annie. 

Now working as a yoga teacher and reprographics technician, she uses exercise — particularly yoga — to help manage her condition and maintain a positive outlook. 

It was a huge shock, but since being in touch with my Parkinson’s nurse, she has been incredible. 

I can call her when I need to. She listens, explains things clearly and helps me understand how to manage my symptoms and daily life. After such a difficult start, having that consistent specialist support has made an enormous difference – Megan Keogh

Megan previously took part in Walk for Parkinson’s in Birmingham with her daughter and is looking forward to doing it again this year. 

My daughter completed the whole route last year. Watching her keep going reminded me why I stay positive. 

This year we’re walking again to help make sure other people can access the same specialist support. – Megan Keogh

The Cannock Chase event will offer two routes — a shorter 1.6-mile walk and a longer 5.6-mile route through the forest — making it accessible for all abilities. 

Entry costs £12 (with under 18s going free), and participants receive a fundraising pack and event t-shirt. The charity is also encouraging volunteers to get involved and support the day. 

It’s inspiring to have people like Megan, sign up to support Walk for Parkinson’s to help raise money for Parkinson’s Nurse Appeal. The funds raised will aim to raise £9 million over three years to increase the number of Parkinson’s specialists. This will give thousands of people with Parkinson’s access to the specialist care they need.  

We hope as many people as possible will come along to take part in the walk, which promises to be lots of fun. We’re also keen to hear from anyone who would be interested in volunteering to support the smooth running of the event. – Alison Cope, Community Fundraiser for Parkinson’s UK

Those wishing to support Megan or find out more can visit: 

https://events.parkinsons.org.uk/fundraisers/MeganKeogh

To sign up for the walk or volunteer: 
https://events.parkinsons.org.uk/event/walk-parkinsons-staffordshire/home 

Megan with her seven-year-old daughter, Ada-Annie, who will be walking
the longer route at Cannock Chase this June.
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