Former Hearts player shares Parkinson's disease battle as diagnosis sparks 'massive shock'

A former Hearts player has opened up on his battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

The condition means parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years. It is a progressive movement disorder of the nervous system, with symptoms including tremors, stiffness, and slow movements.

Aidy Boothroyd featured at Hearts during the 90s as a player, also representing Huddersfield Town, Mansfield Town and Peterborough United before moving into coaching. He won the Championship play-offs in 2006 with Watford and led England’s U21s side to Toulon Tournament victory in 2018. Boothroyd has also managed Colchester United, Coventry City and Northampton Town alongside a spell in India.

Former Hearts player praised

Now 54, Boothroyd says he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease three years ago and it has come as a huge surprise. He said in a statement to the LMA: "The news came as a massive shock to me. It has taken me time to feel ready to share my diagnosis, and I have found it difficult not being completely open with people.

"Personally, my passion and love for coaching is as strong as ever, I am focusing on keeping physically fit, which is key to slowing down the progression of Parkinson's. I am ready to start the next chapter in my life. I would like to thank the LMA and Parkinson's UK for their support."

LMA CEO Richard Bevan said: "Aidy has displayed incredible positivity, resolve and determination since his Parkinson's diagnosis three years ago. His passion for football and people drives him on and he continues to play an active role in the LMA, as an almost ever-present senior member at our events and educational sessions.

"We care deeply for all our members, and Aidy's attitude since his diagnosis has been an inspiration to our entire team as we continue to support him and his family throughout this unexpected and challenging time."

Parkinson's UK CEO Caroline Rassell said: "Everyone at Parkinson's UK, sends Aidy Boothroyd our best wishes and thanks him for raising awareness of Parkinson's by publicly sharing his diagnosis. With more than 40 symptoms, Parkinson's is unpredictable and undoubtedly introduces new challenges, but with the right support and staying active for 2.5 hours a week people can take control of their lives.

"Aidy is now part of a community of 153,000 people in the UK who live with Parkinson's along with the millions of loved ones who support them. We are here to support them all. A public Parkinson's diagnosis often encourages people to think about their own health and we would encourage anyone concerned about symptoms to speak to their GP, visit parkinsons.org.uk or call the Parkinson's UK confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303."