Meet North East Parkies United: Kevin Ramsey

Parkinson’s UK Walking Football participant Kevin Ramsey had his world turned upside down by his diagnosis a few years ago. 

The 55-year-old admitted that at the time, the easiest thing to do would be to sit around and let the disease take its toll. 

However, Kevin has been fighting back through the Foundation of Light’s walking football sessions for those with neurological illnesses and is set to compete at the Sport Parkinson’s Walking Football Tournament at St. George’s Park with North East Parkies United.

“Before I came here, I didn’t know anybody with Parkinson’s Disease, I didn’t know anything about neurological diseases,” Kevin acknowledged.  

“It’s not just the fitness, it’s the mental side as well. Having other people who are going through the same things I am really helps a lot.” 

For those with Parkinson’s disease, exercise is a vital component to maintaining balance and mobility, allowing them to continue to perform the activities of daily living. 

Kevin’s love of football was his initial inspiration to joining the sessions, but they have become a stepping stone for so much more. He is now regularly going to the gym, heading out on walks, and socialising. 

“Without being able to come here on a Tuesday, I would just sit at home, vegetate, and waste away,” he admits. 

“You’ve kind of got to force yourself to do something every day because exercise is great for the mind and the body. 

“After the session, just to sit down and talk to each other, find out what we’re all up to over a cup of tea and a biscuit, that’s just as important to me as the fitness and playing football. 

“It’s the simple things that sometimes really help.”