Racing for a Reason
In Aid of
Parkinson's
Every mile Karl sails is dedicated to the millions of people living with Parkinson's disease and the researchers working to change their future.
Understanding the Condition
What is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects the brain. It develops when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement, stop working properly and are lost over time.
There is currently no cure. Treatments can help manage symptoms, but the condition worsens over time. It affects people differently, and no two people's experience of Parkinson's is the same.
Parkinson's is not just a condition that causes tremors. It affects movement, sleep, mood, cognition, and quality of life in profound ways, for the person diagnosed and for everyone around them.
Learn more at Parkinson's UK & Parkinson's Ireland
The Scale of the Challenge
Parkinson's by the Numbers
People worldwide living with Parkinson's
People will be diagnosed in their lifetime
Fastest-growing neurological condition globally
Current treatments manage symptoms only
Annual cost to the UK economy
People living with Parkinson's in the UK
Living with Parkinson's
How Parkinson's Affects People
Parkinson's affects far more than movement. The condition has over 40 known symptoms; physical, cognitive, and emotional. These symptoms vary from person to person.
Tremor
Involuntary shaking, usually starting in a hand or arm at rest.
Slowness of Movement
Bradykinesia makes everyday tasks slow and difficult.
Rigidity
Muscle stiffness that can cause pain and limit range of motion.
Balance Problems
Postural instability increases the risk of falls.
Non-Motor Symptoms
Sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, and cognitive changes.
Speech & Writing
Changes in voice volume and handwriting are common.
Our Commitment
Why We Race
The Global Solo Challenge gives Smith Ocean Projects a global platform. Every media mention, every sponsor conversation, every social post is an opportunity to put Parkinson's in front of people who might otherwise never think about it.
Funds raised through the campaign will be donated to the Partner Charities in a number of ways. Donors can donate directly to a partner charity in their region or to the wider cause, being split among all the charities. We aim to represent every geographical area with a local charity to bring the benefits of funds raised to anyone and everyone, no matter where they are. The charities supporting people affected by Parkinson's all over the world are funding vital research, providing expert information, care and support.
Parkinson's UK is a registered charity (No. 258197) and Parkinson's Ireland is a registered charity (No. 6170). Every pound and euro raised goes directly towards research, support services, and the fight for better treatments, and ultimately, a cure.
Official Charity Partners
Parkinson's UK
Registered Charity No. 258197
The UK's leading Parkinson's charity, funding research, providing support, and fighting for a better future for everyone affected by Parkinson's.
Parkinson's Ireland
Registered Charity No. 6170
Ireland's leading Parkinson's charity, supporting people living with Parkinson's and their families through services, advocacy, and research.