Army veteran hosts tea party for Parkinson’s research

A retired army captain diagnosed with Parkinson’s is holding a tea party to raise £5,000 for research into the condition.

Geoff Hodgson, 62, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in September last year. He and his husband Stephen Garry are organising the fundraiser to support others going through similar experiences.

The event will take place at their home, Skirden Barn in Casterton near Kirkby Lonsdale, on Saturday 30 August between 10am and 4pm.

Hodgson served in the army for 30 years before spending the past decade fostering children in care.

Stephen said: “Geoff is a very fit, active man and has served in the army for 30 years, and then fostered children in care for the last 10 years.

“As you can imagine this diagnosis has come as a great shock however he wants to remain as positive as he can by doing this fundraiser to help all who are suffering with this disease.”

The event, being held at Skirden Barn, aims to raise at least £5,000 for Parkinson’s UK.

Stephen added: “We have already raised the sum of approximately £2,000 via JustGiving and have had a huge amount of lovely raffle prizes donated for the raffle being held on the day.

“These have all been donated by local businesses in and around Kirkby Lonsdale, as well as by friends and family.”

Cakes and drinks will be available throughout the day along with the raffle. The online fundraising page will remain open for the rest of the month.

Stephen said Geoff was on medication and “doing great” following his diagnosis, but both understand the long-term impact the disease may have.

He said: “Parkinson’s is devastating and affects millions of people around the world every year.

“So much more research and funding is needed so we are trying to raise as much as possible.”

All proceeds will go to Parkinson’s UK, the charity that funds research and supports people affected by the condition.