YOUR voice: Barrie Smith
Diagnosed at 49 after decades of unexplained symptoms, Barrie shares his determination to be heard, stay himself and support others. Through advocacy and community building, he reflects on trusting your instincts, living authentically and finding strength in the Parkinson’s community.
YOUR voice: Gina Walter
After a long and difficult path to diagnosis, this story reflects grief, determination and unexpected growth with Young Onset Parkinson’s. From becoming a fitness instructor to building community and embracing family honesty, it’s a journey about living in the present and finding purpose beyond the condition.
YOUR voice: Rose Donaldson
Diagnosed just before 50, Rose shares her journey from early symptoms and shock diagnosis to building community, creativity and confidence. Through hiking, dance, choir and her podcast, she reflects on positivity, peer support and the importance of staying active with Young Onset Parkinson’s.
YOUR voice: Wendy Noble
Diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s at 51, Wendy shares how she continues working, performing music and travelling a decade later. Through research involvement, community support and careful routines, she reflects on adapting expectations, staying connected and choosing to live fully despite uncertainty.
YOUR voice: Sarah Sykes
A careers adviser diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s at 46 shares how empathy, volunteering and creativity reshaped her outlook. From supporting students and running peer groups to poetry and family walks, she reflects on pacing life, accepting help and finding strength through community.
YOUR voice: Paul Morris
Diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s at 32, Paul shares how life continued through career, marriage and parenthood before Deep Brain Stimulation changed his journey. From adapting hobbies and exercise to finding purpose through community and volunteering, his story reflects acceptance, resilience and connection.
YOUR voice: Snehal Amembal
A writer and poet living with Young Onset Parkinson’s shares her diagnosis journey, the role of creativity in coping, and how routine, exercise and advocacy have helped her build a hopeful and purposeful daily life.
YOUR voice: Rebecca Jones
Rebecca was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s at 41 while balancing NHS leadership, motherhood and a busy family life. She shares the difficult decision to retire, how creativity and routine help her manage symptoms, and why openness, community and purpose have become central to living well with YOPD.
Report of the Trustees and Financial Statements 01/04/2024 – 31/03/2025
A snapshot of Spotlight YOPD’s year, highlighting our impact, growth, and how we’re supporting the young onset Parkinson’s community.
YOUR voice: Samantha Cole
Samantha Cole is a Consultant Clinical Health Psychologist, NHS leader, parent, and CEO of Spotlight YOPD, living with young-onset Parkinson’s. In this reflective and honest piece, she shares how she continues to work full-time, adapts her routines, and stays active while living with YOPD. Samantha offers thoughtful insights on medication, family life, identity, and advocacy, giving a calm, human perspective on balancing health, leadership, and everyday life.
A Decade of Impact: January 2026 Newsletter
We’re celebrating 10 years! 🎉 Read our January 2026 newsletter to see how far we’ve come.
Press release: SpotlightYOPD marks 10 years
January 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of SpotlightYOPD. This press release shares the charity’s journey so far, its commitment to supporting people with young onset Parkinson’s, and how the anniversary year will be used to raise awareness, advocate for change, and build momentum for the future.