Getting my blue badge - Alan's story
Alan is 77 and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 5 years ago. He was recently awarded a Blue Badge and shares his experience.
My family suggested a Blue Badge might be beneficial, but I thought, “I can still do this.”
Since my diagnosis, I’ve felt very fortunate. I was keeping things at bay by taking my medication and exercising. Even a year ago, I was still playing golf, going out for runs and could still walk good distances.
But in the last year I have slowed down. I was experiencing muscle and joint pain and constant back pain, which was causing my legs to buckle when I walked. My mobility had reduced enormously and I was struggling to even walk around the supermarket with my wife.
I always thought I would never qualify for a Blue Badge. But my frustration had built up so after being introduced to Kate, a Parkinson’s local adviser, I decided to apply with her help. Kate made everything very easy and I was awarded a badge without any problems.
Before having it, I would have to think where I could park in relation to where I needed to get to and it was a concern, especially with my mobility. Now I can park where I need to rather than where is available.
The improvement to my wellbeing and peace of mind is enormous. Often we fight to carry on as usual, but this can mean we are struggling on. I don’t look at my Blue Badge as being something I’m entitled to, but it has been a massive advantage.