Mrs Hutton and her husband Len only love one activity more than taking in the breathtaking panoramic views from their home behind Attunga, and that is hooking the caravan up and hitting the road to take in all Australia has to offer.

Tuesday is International Parkinson’s Day and locally the Parkinson’s Support Group are using the day to shine a light on the fact that a diagnosis in these modern times is far from a death sentence if it is managed properly.

PD is a disorder that results in the degeneration of the central nervous system, and directly impacts the nerves that handle motor functions for the body as a whole, resulting in some weakness and shaking in most cases.

“While I am aware that there is no cure, my neurologist has indicated that with modern advances in treatment and medication I should have 15 to 20 years of quality life left,” Mrs Hutton said.

Local sufferer’s including Mrs Hutton have taken a tongue in cheek approach to one of the most important aspects of treatment, exercise.

The Movers, Shakers and Sippers club meet at least once a week at Rural Fit to be put through their paces, as well as share their experiences whilst enjoying a coffee, and Mrs Hutton would like to see more sufferer’s come forward and join both the support and exercise groups.

Mrs Hutton is also a leading local advocate for Sing Australia, as the act of singing helps keep her vocal chords and throat strong, as often swallowing and even talking can become a major problem as the disease develops.

After first being diagnosed Mrs Hutton would often have to use a wheelchair, although with medication and exercise the wheelchair now mostly gathers dust as the couple of 45 years hit the road whenever they can.

“I have good days and bad days but take each day at a time,” Mrs Hutton said.

“Apart from being a little slower my life hasn’t changed that much and I hope to continue ticking a few more things off the bucket list.” 

Recently north west PD sufferers took a hit when the Newcastle based specialist Parkinson’s nurse announced that she would be unable to continue doing her quarterly visits to Tamworth because of an already overstretched workload in the Hunter.

Former Tamworth Support Group publicity officer John Crosby has stepped down from his role to take the fight to get a full time nurse in Tamworth fulltime.

Mr Crosby believes there is a real need for a fulltime Specialist Neurological Nurse (SNN) in the region.