A New Zealand woman diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease has transformed a life-changing diagnosis into a remarkable journey of endurance, perspective and purpose, undertaking thousands of kilometres of long-distance walking across Europe.

Jennifer Andrewes, originally from Dunedin, first noticed symptoms more than a decade ago, when an unexplained tremor began affecting her ability to perform in public. Initially dismissed as nerves or anxiety, the condition gradually worsened, impacting her confidence before she sought medical advice.

After years of uncertainty, Andrewes was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s by a neurologist, a moment she describes as confronting but not entirely surprising. Rather than focusing on the limitations of the condition, she adopted a pragmatic mindset, choosing to “keep on keeping on” and continue living life as fully as possible.

Her response to the diagnosis led to a significant shift in priorities. Andrewes reduced her workload and focused more on activities that brought her joy and supported her wellbeing, particularly walking. Research and global connections with others living with Parkinson’s reinforced the benefits of movement and lifestyle changes in managing symptoms.

What began as a practical way to manage her condition soon evolved into something far more ambitious. In 2022, Andrewes completed an 800-kilometre walk across France. Building on that achievement, she later undertook an even more demanding journey, walking more than 2,400 kilometres from Canterbury in the United Kingdom to Rome over nearly 100 days.

She says the experience not only improved her physical condition but also highlighted the mental and emotional benefits of sustained movement, routine and immersion in nature. “I don’t experience Parkinson’s in the same way when I’m walking long distances,” she said, noting the positive impact on both body and mind.

Andrewes has since documented her journey in a book, The Only Way Is Up, is aiming to challenge common perceptions of Parkinson’s as solely an “older person’s disease” and to offer hope to others facing similar diagnoses.

Her story underscores a broader message about resilience and mindset. Rather than allowing a diagnosis to define her future, Andrewes has chosen to reshape the narrative, focusing on what is still possible, rather than what may lie ahead.

The Only Way Is Up, on foot to Rome is available at https://myparallellives.com

For more information as well as support services for Parkinsons visit https://www.parkinsons.org.nz/