The Chase star, Paul Sinha (pictured), and comedian, author and NHS anaesthetist, Ed Patrick, and are the final acts to be announced for Shake with Laughter, Parkinson's UK flagship comedy night, taking place at the Comedy Store on Wednesday 19 October.
Joining Rob, Paul, and Ed on the night are Tim Vine, Jo Brand, Ivo Graham, Paul Mayhew-Archer and Sharon Wanjohi.
Paul Sinha aka “The Sinnerman” on the hit ITV game show, The Chase, was diagnosed with the condition at the age of 49, said: “I’ve had a positive mindset since I received my diagnosis. I’ve been to all the places that I really want to go, and I have done the things that I really want to do, for me now, I’m focussing on enjoying life, enjoying the company of great people, and helping raise awareness of Parkinson’s and the effect is has on people’s lives.”
Ed Patrick, comedian and author of the ‘funny, touching and gobsmacking’ memoir, ‘Catch Your Breath: The Secret Life of a Sleepless Anaesthetist’, said: “Shake with Laughter will be a great night, you’re guaranteed to have a great evening out. So, grab your tickets whilst you can! The event will be raising money for pioneering research into Parkinson’s, which affects around 145,000 people in the UK. I’m excited to be involved with such a worthy cause.”
“My mum suffers from Parkinson’s so it’s an issue close to home for me and my family. It’s great to raise awareness and money for such a good cause.”
Shake with Laughter was founded by award-winning comedian Rob Deering, from Stoke Newington. Rob came up with the idea of a comedy night to raise much-needed funds for Parkinson’s UK in 2012, after his dad was diagnosed with the condition.
Rob Deering said: “Like some of my comedy colleagues taking part in Shake with Laughter with me this year, my life has been affected by Parkinson's. My dad passed away in 2019, having lived with the condition for more than 15 years. While he isn't able to come to my gigs any more, he still inspires me in everything I do, from comedy, running and quizzes, to raising awareness and funds for Parkinson’s UK.
“I'm hoping for a full house on October 19, so that we can raise plenty of money for people like my dad, whilst having lots of fun doing so."
Shake with Laughter takes its name from one of the common symptoms of Parkinson’s. Doors open at 8pm.
Tickets cost £23.50 per person (£20 for students). To buy your ticket, or to find out more about the event, visit www.parkinsons.org.uk/shakewithlaughter Tickets will also be available on the door.
To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK visit parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising
