The launch is an extension of the partnership between Parkinson’s UK and NEXT which began earlier this year with a range of exclusive adult t-shirts and tote bags designed by a Boyswear Designer at NEXT, who also has Parkinson’s. The partnership stems from a shared ambition to increase understanding of Parkinson’s as a ‘hidden disability’ alongside championing diversity and disability inclusion. Alex said: “I am so excited and proud to partner with NEXT and Parkinson’s UK to help get more people understanding Parkinson’s through joy, love and good vibes. When I was diagnosed, I appreciated the compassion that was shown to me at the time by a friend. I relished in the kindness people showed me. I want to give that back and I want to share the love. “As an individual living with Parkinson’s, I wanted to get some feel-good messages out there for the Parkinson’s community. The colours in the range are so vibrant and evoke positivity and happiness. It would be amazing to see this range sell out and raise money for people living with Parkinson’s, whatever their age, so that they get the right support and are never left out. I also hope some kid playing on the sofa with that pillow under their head feels the softness and feels safe.”
cure. There are 145,000 people living with the condition in the UK and of those, 1,752 (1.2 per cent) are under the age of 50. The proceeds from the range will directly fund the transformation of Parkinson’s UK services and enable the charity to provide personalised support to people with Parkinson’s, their families, friends and carers. It will also fund a support programme for other younger people with Parkinson’s. Lisa Gill, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Parkinson’s UK, said: “We’re delighted to continue our partnership with NEXT and announce the launch of Alex Echo’s exclusive collection. Since his diagnosis, Alex has been a generous supporter of Parkinson’s UK and we’re really grateful that NEXT has chosen to use his designs. “Alex is a huge inspiration to the Parkinson’s community and his journey is all about overcoming adversity through creativity, community, reaching out and ‘sharing the love.’ We hope his art reaches many people and raises greater awareness and vital funds to provide services for people living with Parkinson’s so they, and their loved ones, get the support that they need.”
To shop the collection and support Parkinson’s UK, visit next.co.uk/shop/promotion-parkinsonsuk
Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, and currently there is no
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