OKEHAMPTON local Norman Brock and his two daughters took the plunge on Saturday, May 13, and abseiled down England’s highest waterfall in support of Parkinson’s UK.

The abseil involved a 220-foot drop down Canonteign Falls waterfall in the Teign Valley on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Fifty-eight-year-old Norman and his daughters Jess and Kayleigh decided to take on the challenge as Norman was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2016. The family have managed to raise more than £1,700 for Parkinson’s UK.

Norman said: “It was quite a shock for the whole family when I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. We knew about the condition because my father-in-law had it, but that did not prepare me for the journey that I am now on. But with the help of my wife, family, and Parkinson’s UK’s support and research, I’m managing to steer my way through.

“I’m really happy to have completed the abseil with my daughters, I’m very proud of them! I’d tell others in my situation that you need to keep pushing yourself, things aren’t always easy but there are some brilliant and inspirational people around to support you on the way. A very big thank you to everyone who sponsored us.”

Norman’s daughter Jess, 29, added: “This challenge was an exceptional one, we all had to really push ourselves and support each other as a team. It was extra special to do it together and make some memories. It means a lot to raise awareness of the condition and Parkinson’s UK. Go team Brock!”

There is still time to support the Brock family and Parkinson’s UK. To donate visit their JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/family-brock

Parkinson’s UK is the leading charity driving better care, treatments and quality of life for those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s through cutting edge research, information, support and campaigning.

If anyone would like to get involved in a fundraising event for Parkinson’s UK, visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/events.