Massive congratulations to Jo Holland, who runs Parkinson’s Beats sessions at Moray Sports Centre, after being crowned winner of the Active Award at the BBC Make a Difference Awards in Scotland.
The award recognises individuals who use physical activity or sport to improve wellbeing within their communities. Jo was honoured for her work creating Parkinson’s Beats, an adapted cardio-drumming programme designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Jo’s inspiring initiative has continued to grow, with sessions now running in multiple locations across Scotland. Her dedication to making exercise accessible and enjoyable has had a significant impact on participants’ health and wellbeing.
Speaking after receiving the award, Jo said: “I think it’s unbelievable. I’d be speechless, but I’m never speechless. I’m amazed, there are so many people that are doing such great work and I’m just having fun with a drum. I do it because I love it. It’s not work, it’s not hard, it’s just pleasure. Why wouldn’t I do it?”
The judges, Julie Wilson Nimmo and Greg Hemphill, praised Jo’s contribution, highlighting the positive difference she has made to people living with Parkinson’s through the programme she helped create.
Jo has also recently appeared on The One Show to discuss her award-winning work, which can be viewed on BBC iPlayer:
bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m002rwcp
Everyone at Moray Sports Centre congratulates Jo on this fantastic achievement and the continued success of Parkinson’s Beats.