Member Spotlight: Anthony "Tony" Haines – The Bent Over Poet, An inspiring path through Parkinson’s.

At 74 years old, Anthony Haines - affectionately known as Tony or The Bent Over Poet - has a life story filled with resilience, creativity, and community spirit. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease shortly after his 40th birthday, Tony’s journey began with what seemed like a minor twitch in his little finger during a routine doctor’s appointment in 1991. That small sign led to a life-altering diagnosis, one he never expected at his age, believing Parkinson’s was something that only affected the elderly.

The early years of his diagnosis were especially challenging. Alongside navigating a new reality with Parkinson’s, Tony experienced the breakdown of his first marriage and the departure of his eldest son from home. Left to raise his younger son alone, Tony had to come to terms with the progression of a degenerative condition without the support he once had.

But Tony’s story is far from one of defeat. In 1997, a spark of hope arrived when Sue, a friend of his son, came into his life to buy a fridge freezer. Two years later, they walked down the aisle together, and Sue has since been a steadfast pillar of love and encouragement.

Over the past 34 years, Tony has explored numerous treatments and lifestyle approaches to managing Parkinson’s. He remains an active part of his community, participating in weekly activities such as Boccia and Bowls. He is also a proud member of Wales’ first Parkinson’s Samba Band - a group he says brings not only joy and rhythm but also “free tea, coffee, and cake!”

Most recently, Tony began attending a Parkinson’s-specific circuit class at Eastern Leisure Centre led by instructor Jason. According to Tony, Jason’s class is the best he’s ever experienced. With a focus on amplitude, coordination, strength, balance, stamina, speech and cognitive challenges, the class is both physically and mentally rewarding. More importantly, it creates a space where people with Parkinson’s can connect, support each other, and build friendships.

Tony’s journey took a dramatic turn recently when he suffered a serious health scare. For a time, his family feared they might lose him - it was touch and go. But true to his spirit, Tony found inspiration in an unlikely source: his physiotherapist, a double amputee, whose courage and determination reignited Tony’s own will to fight. Motivated by this example, Tony returned to exercise with renewed energy and purpose.

Now, Tony is back - making everyone around him smile, sharing his poetry, and moving forward with determination in his heart. His story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and staying active. Through poetry, love, and movement, The Bent Over Poet continues to inspire all those around him.

If you have an inspiring story you would like to share email: jason.nash@gll.org