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The Parkinson’s Conference 2025 – Lived Experience Panel

Conference 2025
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In this powerful Lived Experience Panel from The Parkinson’s Conference 2025, four people living with Parkinson’s share honest, unfiltered stories about diagnosis, family, identity, exercise, mental health and what it really means to “live well” with a progressive condition.

About This Video

Hosted by Barbara Cullinan (The Parkinson’s Centre), this panel features:

  • Clyde Campbell AM – Founder of Shake It Up Australia Foundation, diagnosed at 44 while CEO, now a leading advocate and fundraiser for Parkinson’s research.
  • Sheenagh Bottell – Diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s at 47, Australia’s Lived Experience Ambassador and Ambassador for the World Parkinson’s Congress.
  • Graham Ponter – Newly diagnosed in March this year, sharing raw reflections on shock, depression, family conversations and finding purpose again.
  • Deborah Littlewood – Former educator and leader, now an active advocate, volunteer and strong voice for community and lifelong learning with Parkinson’s.

Together, they discuss:

  • How they first noticed symptoms and received their diagnoses
  • Telling partners, children and friends – what helped those conversations
  • Anger, grief, fear and “why me?” – and how they moved forward
  • The role of exercise, routine and The Parkinson’s Centre in staying independent
  • Young onset Parkinson’s and why awareness is critical
  • The impact on speech, work, identity and confidence
  • Staying positive without pretending it’s easy
  • How support groups, humour, grandkids, volunteering and advocacy give meaning
  • The one word or phrase that captures how each of them chooses to live well

This is a grounded, hopeful and deeply relatable session for anyone touched by Parkinson’s.

Key Themes & Keywords

Parkinson’s lived experience, Parkinson’s Conference 2025, Shake It Up Australia, young onset Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s diagnosis stories, Parkinson’s and family, telling kids about Parkinson’s, exercise and Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s support groups, mental health and Parkinson’s, carers and partners, resilience, hope, advocacy, World Parkinson’s Congress, The Parkinson’s Centre.

Who This Video Helps

  • People living with Parkinson’s (newly diagnosed or long-term)
  • Partners, carers, family members and friends
  • Health and allied health professionals wanting to better understand lived experience
  • Community organisations, support group leaders and advocates
  • Anyone needing honest, practical hope on the Parkinson’s journey

The Parkinson’s Centre Google Reviews

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The Park - Parkinson's Centre
5.0
Based on 25 reviews
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Mike Smith profile picture
Mike Smith
3 years ago
I am thoroughly satisfied with the care and attention I receive as a Parkinson sufferer from the professional staff at The Park. They provide programs in a clean, modern facility with the latest knowledge and equipment. If you have been recently diagnosed with PD or have a more advanced condition, I can recommend The Park as the place to go to receive the best in individual or group physiotherapy.
Sue Russell profile picture
Sue Russell
3 years ago
I really enjoy my physio at the new Centre. Barbara and Rory have done a great job so far. I'm sure the future extensions will give us
more opportunities to improve our mobility and mental health.
I am very happy that Barbara and Tina continue to offer Parkinson's
people the support needed.
John & Libby Edwards profile picture
John & Libby Edwards
3 years ago
I thoroughly enjoy my exercise classes at The Park. I feel safe, secure, welcome and supported. The gym is spacious and has excellent facilities. The equipment has been specifically designed, is brand new and satisfying to use. The Park is people orientated. There is a genuine sense of community fostered in classes. For me, The Park is a happy, welcoming place where I am encouraged to expand my boundaries. John Edwards
Susie Thomas profile picture
Susie Thomas
3 years ago
Barb runs an amazing program, and has such passion for improving the lives of people with Parkinson’s (and their carers). We’ve been coming to Barb’s classes for a couple of years and we love it. It’s the highlight of our week. My husband loves coming here, and so do I. If I could give 100 gold stars I would.
Leanne Wolfe profile picture
Leanne Wolfe
3 years ago
Well equipped gym. Easy parking. Experienced Parkinsons related Pysio therapists. Newly opened. Friendly front desk gentleman. Highly recommended
Helen Hall profile picture
Helen Hall
3 years ago
I have attended class programs for two years and find the staff very professional, supportive and caring for the individuals and their journey. Programs suit all level of Parkinson's Disease within each class as well across the client cohort.

A wide range of equipment provides challenges for every level. Cognitive maintenance is a constant element of the classes - often causing much fun!

The premises are spotlessly clean - and air-conditioned. The location is easily accessed from the Bruce Highway and ample parking is available.

The classes typically have developed into friendly support groups.
Margie Doyle profile picture
Margie Doyle
3 years ago
I cannot speak highly enough of The Park - Parkinson's Centre. Barb is professional, friendly and caring as is Tina and Rory. I always feel very welcome and comfortable with all the great people in the class. I leave the class feeling motivated to keep exercising and to always try my best. The exercise room is spacious and I have everything I need to make the most out of my sessions. Good location and heaps of parking
Anon profile picture
Anon
3 years ago
The Park is an amazing facility with professional and friendly staff who focus on each individual client. As the name suggests The Park tailors for people with Parkinson’s. The new premises are modern and welcoming and the staff greet everyone by name. The staff are extremely caring and you feel very valued as a member of The Park Everything is scrupulously clean and hygienic. The clients often undertake regular group sessions so people get to know one other well without any expectations of more involvement than they are comfortable with. The equipment is innovative and fun to use and a lot of items used can easily be obtained cheaply for home practice which is a great bonus. The new premises are easy to access, with ample parking and the proximity of the Super IGA and excellent coffee shop are an added attraction . I highly recommend The Park to anyone with Parkinsons.
GRAHAM WHITE profile picture
GRAHAM WHITE
3 years ago
The Park is an excellent facility for people with Parkinsons disease.
It is very accessible, with ample parking, and a has a very welcoming atmosphere on arrival. The programs are always varied, interesting, and topical.
Barbs, Rory and staff are always very positive and obviously care and committed to their clients.
I wish them all the very best for the future.
Megan Moore profile picture
Megan Moore
3 years ago
Recent visits to The Park. We were met and welcomed in by the Receptionist and felt we were not just a number. We were made to feel special.
The Park location is great just off the highway. The equipment in the Gym is unique. Barb has put alot of knowledge and time into being able to assist and help not only Parkinson’s but people with brain disease.
The premises are well designed and clean and fresh. The best thing of all for me is there is a well equipped Disability Toilet. Overall a very impressive experience.
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