Tadley resident and Parkinson’s UK chair named in King’s Birthday Honours List

A Tadley resident has been named in the King’s first Birthday Honours List.

Gary Shaughnessy, 56, is the chair of the board of trustees for Parkinson’s UK and has been appointed a CBE for his services to business and charity.

Mr Shaughnessy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2015 and since his diagnosis, he has taken on numerous physical fundraising challenges to raise awareness and funds for charity, becoming a role model for many members of the Parkinson’s community in the process.

Mr Shaughnessy said: “When I was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I didn’t know what the future would hold, and I certainly never expected that it would lead me here and to this award.

“My wife Janet, told me to focus on what I could do, and that approach is what has driven me to where I am today.

“I’m incredibly humbled and grateful, as all I ever set out to do was to take control of my condition and show others that they could do the same.”

Mr Shaughnessy has planned and undertaken challenges such as a 1,400 mile cycle from Liverpool to Ukraine, a swim between St Kitts and Nevis and an Arch to Arc challenge from London to Paris.

Along the way, he’s raised over £500,000 for Parkinson’s UK and Z Zurich Foundation, a Swiss charity that helps vulnerable people around the world.

He is currently part of a group cycling from the UK to Barcelona to attend the World Parkinson’s Congress next month.

“Charities play an important role in society, one that cannot be underestimated and awards like this reflect that,” he added.

“The Parkinson’s community is filled with incredible and talented people who all contribute in their own way.

“Some run support groups, others participate in research. Some lobby and campaign, others fundraise.

“For others, the most important thing they are doing right now is coming to terms with their diagnosis, setting a plan that will allow them to live well.

“Each of them inspires me, so whilst this award is for my contributions, what they have given to me cannot be underestimated.”

Chief executive of Parkinson’s UK Caroline Rassell said: “Over the years, Gary has become a central figure in the Parkinson’s community, meeting those affected and taking time to share his experiences with openness and honesty.

“He approaches his role at Parkinson’s UK with such passion and pride. He’s a true role model and is so deserving of this award.”

Barbara Laithwaite, managing director of the Theale-based wine company Laithwaites, was also awarded an OBE for her services to the wine industry.