Patient Perspective

Parkinson’s Concierge is a revolutionary new concept to the healthcare sector. Run by, and for the benefit of people living with Parkinson’s. We are unique. We are different. Co-founders Russ Bradford, and Charlotte Allen, both of whom fall into the category of idiopathic young-onset (RB diagnosed at 40, and CA at 36yrs old), bring to the table their wealth of business acumen, as well as an understanding of what people living with this incurable condition use, need, and potentially may require, in their lives. Sourcing new business partners who can offer products and services to benefit, as well as enrich the lives of people living with the condition, is one of our business passions, but we also provide much more. We campaign for the community nationwide, and globally. Parkinson’s Concierge are also heavily involved in fundraising ideas and patient engagement. Listening to the issues faced by people with Parkinson’s, we take action as appropriate, for change. We actively participate in, and encourage the community to enlist and take part in research, appropriate to their ability and area. For people diagnosed in the earlier years – Young Onset – we fully understand the additional issues faced, such as the financial impact - mortgage, employment, career, etc, as well as the stress the diagnosis can have on family relationships, young children, spouse, family and friends. Despite Parkinson’s being the fastest growing neurological condition globally, you are not alone. Approx. 164 people per day (60,000 per year) are diagnosed across the world, with an estimated 10 million currently living with the condition. It is however, worth noting that every case of Parkinson’s presents different symptoms at different times. Through our extensive network of specialists, Parkinson’s nurses, neurologists, movement disorder specialists, etc, as well as the personal experiences of the team, we are able to offer support and guidance through every stage of the condition. With practical tips and tricks that our team have personally found beneficial, and the products and services we can offer from a personal perspective. We offer blogging, webinars, and regularly uptake public speaking opportunities. We aim to offer a go-to place for every aspect of the condition, with presence on all social media channels, as well as signposting to sources of information and sites that are tried and tested for the benefit of the community. We actively collaborate with, and sit on the panels of numerous steering committees, and work on the issues that affect us all. We have produced educational video’s for Russ’s recent Deep Brain Surgery, and are currently working with manufacturers who offer alternative therapies. We are working on a platform of educational mini seminars for GP’s and healthcare workers, to CPD standards. Many people diagnosed with this condition at a younger age, tend to feel “robbed” of their future. Many have to give up their careers, due to the symptoms of not only the condition, but quite often, the many side-effects of the medication. We aim to provide a work finder solution for the ones who have the ability and desire to work at a pace that suits them.

Our global roll-out of our business model is further testament to our dedication to support the community. This will also allow for the opportunity to offer tried and tested products and services from a much broader, wider market. Our supporting partners are numerous, and from an immense variety of offerings. In combination with our platform, we will assist to promote products with a route to market. We will soon be offering discounted rates on everyday essentials, as well as products and services for every aspect of the wellbeing of people living with Parkinson’s. From the latest tech – such as haptic feedback and monitoring devices, to virtual sleep retreats, and online fitness and yoga sessions. Our team are dedicated to helping support the community. Each have a special role to play within our network, and each bring an assortment of experience to the Parkinson’s Concierge team. Parkinson’s Concierge supports All people affected by Parkinson’s. “We will be seen and heard” as a voice for People with Parkinson’s. We educate and advocate. Our ambitious plans are numerous, but achievable. To date, we have achieved so much. But just like the condition we live with, we will not give up.

Article by Russ Bradford, Parkinson’s Concierge