Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease Ireland is delighted to share an exciting new creative initiative led by Artist and EOPD community member Martin Sharry, alongside acclaimed theatre maker Grace Dyas and Lynn Ruane.

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2013 at the age of 33, Martin has long been passionate about using art to challenge perceptions of Parkinson’s and to ensure the voices of those living with the condition are heard.

The project centres around a simple but powerful idea:

“People say they see people with Parkinson’s. But they don’t.”

Together, Martin, Grace and Lynn are inviting people living with Parkinson’s Disease to take part in a six-week charrette—a collaborative creative process where participants come together to explore a shared challenge and develop new ideas. In this case, the challenge is one that resonates deeply with many in our community:

How do we help people truly see people with Parkinson’s?

The workshops will take place every Monday from 28 September, from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, at RUA RED Arts Centre, Tallaght, over six weeks. Participants will be paid for their time.

At Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease Ireland, we know that lived experience is one of the most powerful tools for creating understanding and driving change. We are proud to see our community leading such an important project that aims to challenge misconceptions, amplify authentic voices, and encourage society to see beyond the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.

If you are living with Parkinson’s Disease and would like to take part, you can register your interest by calling, texting or sending a voice note to 085 191 8419, or by emailing nadia@artxgracedyas.com.

We encourage anyone interested to consider getting involved in what promises to be a powerful and meaningful creative collaboration.