Thanks and farewell to Parkinson’s branch founder

The Henley Branch of Parkinson’s UK said a fond farewell and thanks to Dr Terry Dudeney who had founded the branch in 2012 and was stepping down from being the Chair after 14 years last week.

Dr Terry said, “I’ve loved every moment of it.  In 2012, Helen who is here today and a friend of mine called Jeremy Applesford, who was the chair of the Oxford branch of Parkinson’s UK said there may be a need for something in between Oxford and Reading.  Helen set up a meeting with James’s predecessor, and we had a meeting at the d:two Centre in the Market Place in case there were any people with Parkinson’s who might want us to be involved in a local branch. We were overwhelmed with 70 people there and the rest is history. So it was obvious we needed a local branch. Helen was very much in on the start of all that. It is really good to see representatives from Parkinsons UK, the town council, the press and all you members here today.  I don’t really feel that I’ve done that much. It’s the people around me that do it. They’re the ones that I want to thank. And of course, all of you the members of the branch.”

Adrian Blair, Chief People’s Officer at Parkinson’s UK said, “We have over 4,000 volunteers and we could not be doing what we do as a charity without them. You only have to look around today to see the community Terry, that you have built from nothing. You created the group, you set it up and you’ve led it.  I think it’s just phenomenal to come here this morning and hear how not only can you led the group, but you can keep it having a really great time. It is phenomenal, and you should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved here. But it takes a truly special volunteer to do that day after day, week after week, month after month, and year after year for 14 years.”

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Sarah Miller said, “I’m here today to thank Terry for everything he has done to the Parkinson’s community in England. Back in 2012, Terry founded the Parkinson’s group and what we’ve found as a small group has grown over the years into a much valued source of friendship, support and encouragement for so many people living with Parkinson’s as well as their families and of course their carers. Terry’s commitment to the group has made a massive difference. He has helped to create a place where people can come together, share experiences, find support, and perhaps most importantly, to know that they are not alone. We wish you a very happy and wellness of the tiredness, probably playing a few rounds of golf. I hope it brings you plenty of time to relax and enjoy yourself.”

Mike Westwood, the new Chair presented Dr Terry with an album of photos and thank you messages from members, a box of wine and vouchers for tickets to Garsington Opera.

Thanks, were also given to Deputy Chair Anne Gott for her service to the branch over many years.  Judith Tompkins will take over Anne’s role.

The Branch meets every fourth Wednesday between 10.30-12.30 and hosts weekly exercise classes on Wednesdays from 10.30-11.30am and monthly voice classes all at the Christ Church Centre.  If are you are interested in becoming a member contact jennys.parkinsonsuk@gmail.com