An interview with Sharon Hampton: Making Parkinson’s My Partner on November 11, 2024.
Biography
I’m originally from Ireland and moved to Australia when I was 11.
I live with my partner, and I have 4 dogs and 3 adult children.
My career has centered around mental health, and I retired as a dementia therapist in 2023 when the emotional, mental and physical toll got the better of me.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
i advocate in our local area by speaking with people living with Parkinson’s one on one. We have one support group in our area, and I found that many people could not make the only day that they met once per month.
Referrals come to me via word of mouth, Gp’s and our local pharmacies.
Because of my background as a Mental Health Clinician, I find chatting to people in challenging situations is almost second nature.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion has always been to be of service to people. I have a robust sense of justice and equality and have always worked and volunteered in fields that provide services to the community. I took care of three people with end stage Parkinson’s as a dementia therapist and when I was diagnosed, I chatted to them frequently about their experiences.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
People I meet want to live their best life with Parkinson’s.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
There is no time frame, and the structure is based on individual need. The aim is to make Parkinson’s your partner. You work to live your best life with it, it can change daily.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
Talking to someone who understands firsthand the challenges is of huge benefit. Even those closest to us can’t have a complete understanding of the symptoms as there are so many.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
People in my local community I frequently speak to people one on one via social media. We provide support to each other through shared experiences and humor. I’d like to expand to advocate for people who may need assistance with medical professionals and navigating the health system.
What events do you participate in?
Parkinson’s awareness, mental health month/week.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Anything that assists the sufferer also benefits their carer.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
I’m on Instagram as Dublin062 and people can drop me a message.
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
I think they can contact their local support groups and offer assistance, contact health professionals etc.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Tenacity. Don’t give up. Listen to the people living with Parkinson’s and try to advocate for them in a way that best meets their needs. Advocacy should be personalized not general.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
there are numerous organizations that do this well, but I think Governments need to take more responsibility.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Exercise – strength training, boxing, aqua aerobics, walking, yoga and Pilates.
I follow an anti-inflammatory diet.
I take supplements including protein, pro and prebiotics, vitamin D2/K3, magnesium.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
You never know what the future holds.