Martin Taylor
UK
Age diagnosed: 32
Specialist interest: Communicating Research, Awareness & Media
I’m in my 5th year with a Parkinson’s diagnosis having been diagnosed in 2014. I’m married to FIona and have a 3 year old son named Cohen, I work full time as a data analyst for an Investment Management firm. SInce my diagnosis I have been actively involved in research advocacy in various capacities.
Why is the World Parkinson Congress (WPC) important to you?
It’s important as a platform in which the PD community can exert a collective influence in helping to realise better outcomes for the wider community.
What do you hope to get out of WPC?
I hope to meet up with many people that I’ve connected with online and make as positive a contribution as I can in the sessions I’m involved in.
Recent advocacy includes:
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Participation as a panelist in the Dundee/ Edinburgh Research Interest Group Symposium
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Creation of the Parkinson’s Research Interest Group on Facebook
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Member of the Parkinson’s Research Advocacy Group
What is the one thing you want to change in the world?
In the world? A collective focus on addressing global climate change.
In PD? A recognition that we need to better understand and define the disease before we can hope to modify and that in the interim, the primary focus should be PD research.
What advice would you give to others who are keen to get involved in Parkinson’s research?
Don’t be scared to voice your opinion, to speak up and to ask questions.
Is there a piece of reading you would recommend to someone wanting to find out more about Parkinson’s research?
My friend Ben Stecher’s blog, tmrwedition, contains excelent perspectives on PD Research.
Personal Blog – https://granderouge.wordpress.com/