Getting away from it all.


Are you looking for a new challenge and the chance to make a difference?
Then why not join Trek Sahara for the Parkinson's Disease Society!


From 7-15 November 2009, you can discover Africa's most awe-inspiring landscape on
this challenge of a lifetime, experiencing the incredible space and solitude of the most famous desert in the world.

The Sahara varies from flat, stony expanses to perfect sand dunes, broken only by the occasional oasis. The desert stretches from the snow capped High Atlas mountains of Morocco in the west, to the Red Sea coast 4800km to the east. Nothing can compare to the dramatic sand dunes, the shimmering heat of the desert plains, and the sight of acacia, tamarisk, and palm trees.

With proud Berbers as guides and a small caravan of camels to carry supplies, you will trek 100km through this varied and stunning landscape. On completing the challenge, you will have the opportunity to experience the hustle and bustle of vibrant Marrakech, with its storytellers, musicians and souks.

The Parkinson's Disease Society is the UK's leading charity dedicated to supporting all people with Parkinson's, their families, friends and carers. Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition affecting the everyday movements we all take for granted, such as walking, talking and writing. There are 120,000 people with the condition in the UK and there is currently no cure.

The Society is almost entirely funded by voluntary donations. By taking on the Sahara, you can raise vital funds to allow them to continue cutting-edge research into the cause, prevention and cure of Parkinson's disease.

Nicky Lewis, who took part in the Society's Namibia trek, said, "My experience was wonderful, intense and unique, on so many levels. I was truly bowled over by every aspect of the trek; from the generosity of sponsors, to the kindness of fellow trekkers, to the awe-inspiring scenery and the achievement of completing a tough physical challenge. In a way, it's given me a sense of purpose and focus during my mum's illness, and made me realise that while Parkinson's is a cruel and relentless disease, it can also inspire an incredible positivity among those it affects."

There is a £199 registration fee and all participants are asked to raise a minimum of £2,200 in sponsorship. The Parkinson's Disease Society will support you every step of the way, throughout your training and fundraising, as well as during the expedition.

• For your chance to discover the dramatic beauty of Africa, give The Parkinson's Disease Society a call on 020 7932 1314 or email events@parkinsons.org.uk

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