13/06/2025
It's Volunteers' Week so we're taking the opportunity to highlight some of the amazing work being done by volunteers across Wales to support the Parkinson's community.
Tony Hillier from Port Talbot was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012 when he was 59 years old. He said: “I never considered joining a Parkinson’s Support Group. It only came on my radar in 2014 when the local Parkinson’s Nurse at the time asked if I would provide an exercise session for members of the Parkinson’s UK Cymru Neath Port Talbot Support Group. She thought my background in sports therapy would help participants to manage their symptoms. That one-off session soon led to monthly sessions. As I was spending so much time there, my wife Jill and I decided to join the group as members. Then in 2018, the lead volunteer was retiring, so Jill and I stepped up and we’ve been running the group ever since.”
Tony and Jill are now lead volunteers for the monthly group meeting in Longford, Neath as well as a more informal cafe-style “Cuppa and Chat” meeting in Port Talbot which they launched in 2022. They offer a range of activities in the group sessions but there’s no pressure to do anything or to get involved. Tony and Jill want everyone to feel comfortable. Just turning up and being there is enough.
Tony added “It’s a fantastic feeling when someone new comes to their first meeting. They're usually nervous or unsure what to expect. Yet, they tend to leave with a smile on their face, more confident and with a lot of new friends. They have found somewhere safe where no one sees them just for their Parkinson’s. Support groups are invaluable to most people, whether they’re living with Parkinson’s or a family member or carer. It’s a place to share information and to speak openly about any problems.
Since his diagnosis, Jill has been right by Tony's side, even when it comes to volunteering. Tony said: "On my journey with Parkinson’s there has been one constant - my wife Jill. I could never have achieved all I have without her at my side. Helping, encouraging, supporting. Worrying and probably shedding hidden tears. Parkinson’s has brought us closer, and has made us realise what is really important in life. Jill and I are a team and together we can conquer anything. We are Team Tony and Jill. Team us."
Diolch Tony and Jill for being fantastic volunteers and all your hard work.
If Tony and Jill's story has inspired you to consider volunteering for Parkinson's UK Cymru, please contact Dawn McGuinness, our Community Development Manager by emailing dmcguinness@parkinsons.org.uk
