A WEE County woman is preparing to take on a challenge as a nod to a family member who is living with Parkinson's.

Louise Young is hoping to raise awareness of the progressive neurological condition and to fundraise to help with the fight against it.

The mum-of-three has always wanted to participate in a walking or running event for charity and is now seizing the opportunity.

She has set herself the task of completing the Great Scottish Run on Sunday, October 1, and hopes to conquer the 10k distance.

The 37-year-old plans to cover the 6.2 mile stretch at a walking pace, with a spot of running in-between.

Louise, who lives in Alva, decided to sign-up to the annual event after her sister-in-law suggested it.

She then set her sights on raising money for Parkinson's UK, which aims to find a cure and improve life for those affected by Parkinson's.

She said: “I decided to raise funds for Parkinson's after my mum was diagnosed with Parkinson's a few years ago.

“I didn't realise that Parkinson's affects people in so many different ways.

“I would like to raise as much as possible, to help raise awareness and research into helping people with Parkinson's.”

Through her charity endeavour, Louise is also keen to highlight the condition can impact everyone in a different way.

And it won't be the easiest of challenges for her, as she deals with heel pain, but she has already started training in anticipation of the event.

She said: “I have been going on walks doing between four and six miles at a time – also walking the hills in Alva to build stamina.

“I hope to be running some of it, but with me having plantar fasciitis I also find it difficult to run.”

Louise, who runs Alva Toddlers Group, has set herself a fundraising target of £500, however she said she would be happy with any amount.
To donate to the cause, please justgiving.com/fundraising/louise-young30?

About Parkinson's:
-There is currently no cure for Parkinson's.
-There is no exact answer as to why people get Parkinson's.
-However, researchers believe it's a combination of genetic and environmental factors that cause the dopamine-producing nerve cells to die.
-The condition has many potential symptoms, which progress differently for everyone.
-Parkinson's UK aims to drive better care, treatments and quality of life.
-The charity funds research, provides support, campaigns and fundraises.