Chard & Ilminster u3a member Keith (pictured below, second from right) shares how the community and exercise found at his u3a table tennis group helps him manage his physical and mental health after being diagnosed with Parkinson's.

I joined u3a when I moved to Tatworth, near Chard, in South Somerset about 8 years ago. I first joined u3a to learn how to play bridge, but soon realised my local u3a offered a plethora of other activities including various sports.
I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in February 2019. Unfortunately, having Parkinson's meant my energy levels dropped and the tiredness that ensued exacerbated my symptoms and so gym visits became less frequent. Fortunately, I had by then found the Chard and Ilminster u3a table tennis group and now play twice a week.
Like many of us I played table tennis at school but didn't take it up again until I joined u3a. My table tennis group is a mixed group for all abilities. We mainly play doubles, with the odd singles game for those feeling energetic. I find it helps me physically and mentally. The exercise is good for general symptoms, helping with concentration, balance and coordination. Mentally it helps with social interaction and having fun.
It's not all about competition - although most of us don't like to lose! What is really important is the camaraderie, fellowship and social life that the table tennis group has given me. When I moved to Tatworth I knew very few people. I now have an abundance of good friends and an active social life. My table tennis group know about my Parkinson's and look after me when I'm not having a good day.
I really don't know where I'd be without it. Recently one of them was kind enough to hold a cream tea in support of Parkinson's UK, and we raised more than £160.
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