A COVENTRY couple who say their lives have ‘completely changed’ since one of them was diagnosed with Parkinson’s have praised local venues which ‘went above and beyond’ to make them feel comfortable on visits.
John and Ellen Coundon, who have been together for 35 years, spoke ahead of the Cov Cares Awards in June.
Ellen is now John’s full-time carer following his diagnosis seven years ago.
Ellen said: “John having Parkinson’s has changed our lives completely.
“Before the pandemic it wasn’t too bad and we were able to go out, but after being in total lockdown for 18 months, like others, John deteriorated due to lack of activity and not seeing people.
“It was really hard and since then it has been difficult for us to find places to go.”
John, a retired maintenance manager of Coventry University and the University of Warwick, still plays a key role as passionate chairman of The Firebird Singers choir.
Ellen, 67, has praised cafes, restaurants and theatres in the city for their understanding of John’s condition, recognising that businesses are going the extra mile to make them feel comfortable.
The Cov Cares Awards on June 21 will celebrate organisations that boost social connections through a sense of belonging and connecting and John and Ellen are just some of the residents noticing the efforts of local businesses.
The Cov Cares Awards have been developed through a partnership between local charities, unions, businesses and enterprises.
Ellen added: “John still wants to do the things he loves.
“More and more places now understand our needs when you ring up to explain.
“John has always been into his theatre shows and we still get the chance to visit the Belgrade and The Albany who provide free tickets for carers, allowing us to get out there more.
“Thanks to the lovely Emma at Coventry Building Society, who welcomes us with open arms at the Belgrade Theatre.
“For us, it’s all about someone taking the time to understand our situation.
“It’s really appreciated when places go the extra mile to make us feel comfortable.”
Over 400 nominations have been received for the awards so far and people can submit nominations until May 15.
Visit: covcaresawards.co.uk to find out more and to nominate a business or individual for an award.
