A PARKINSON’S disease sufferer has called for greater awareness about the condition following the revelation that almost half of sufferers face discrimination from the public, writes Oliver Clark.

The figures were part of a survey of almost 5,000 patients and carers published by Parkinson’s UK last week.

The survey also said one in five sufferers had their symptoms mistaken for drunkenness, while eight per cent have experienced hostility and verbal abuse from members of the public.

David Hosker, 60, from Tollerton, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s seven years ago. He said: “The shaking of course has connotations with alcohol and drug abuse.

“Last year I went to the supermarket to get Champagne for my daughter’s wedding, I got some looks from people, and then I said I had Parkinson’s and they were fine.

“The brain is working just as well as before, but it causes the face to mimic being drunk or on drugs.

“It also makes us look as if we’re not interested, which makes it harder for the person not suffering from Parkinson’s,” he said “I have a positive attitude. I’d rather make a joke out of it than be a ‘moaning Minny’.

“But I do know people who try to hide it and I understand it must be quite horrific to be given verbal abuse in the street.

“So the public need to be educated, but I also think Parkinson’s sufferers need to understand people can feel uncomfortable and not try and hide their condition.”

Sue Martin, information support worker for Parkinson’s UK, who covers the York, North Yorkshire and Bridlington area, said: “I feel that Parkinson’s disease is very misunderstood. Generally people are only aware of the tremor and nothing else.

“Parkinson’s UK has done a great deal to get the message across and educate not only members of the public but also professionals, but we still have a long way to go.

“I would like paid carers and professionals to know that Parkinson’s UK offer education sessions.

“Once people are aware of Parkinson’s and the effects, they are much more helpful and understanding giving suffers the time and space they need.”

For further information, phone Sue on 0844 225 3635.