A BRADFORD man is at the centre of a new charity film set to be screened on London’s Piccadilly Lights to mark World Parkinson’s Day on Thursday (April 11).

The film, created by Parkinson’s UK, challenges assumptions about the condition and shows how unpredictable and variable Parkinson’s is for people.

In the UK alone, over 153,000 people are living with a diagnosis and there is currently no cure.

Matt Verguson, of Bradford, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, aged just 43, is one of the personal stories that feature in the film which hopes to highlight how Parkinson’s affects everyone differently.

In the film, Matt, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's three years ago but has suffered with the condition for at least six years, said: "It's ok to feel rubbish, depressed and angry.

"It's not a life sentence. There is hope."

Matt, who is a psychotherapist, said: "The symptoms affected my work. I cope with my symptoms throughout the day by planning breaks."

He said although he can get through a day “quite well”, he then “needs to have a nap to recover and recuperate”.

Matt said he has recently been given a grant to develop a personal comic.

In the comic, he makes his Parkinson’s symptoms like tremors part of the art.

"I didn't realise how strong I was, but you have to keep going. And, you know, some good can come from it."

Parkinson’s UK will launch the final film on Thursday, April 11, raising awareness and signposting to the support available, whether someone is newly diagnosed or further along their Parkinson’s journey.

Juliet Tizzard, director of external relations at Parkinson’s UK, said: “These unique films show there is no typical Parkinson’s journey.

"With over 40 different symptoms, Parkinson’s is often different from one person to the next.

"And as our six amazing stories show, it’s also different for each person from day to day, hour to hour, minute to minute.

“Parkinson’s UK is here for everyone affected by Parkinson’s. Whether it’s offering advice through our helpline, information to help manage life with Parkinson’s, or connecting with people in the same boat, we are here to ensure that no one faces Parkinson’s alone.”

To mark World Parkinson’s Day this year, Parkinson’s UK is also encouraging everyone to fundraise, show their support and Make It Blue, from lighting up buildings to hosting blue bake sales to wearing blue for a day.