Major brain surgery gets Martin back on his bike for Parkinson’s UK

Belfast cyclist Martin Hannigan, diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2017, is set to tackle the formidable 100-mile 'Gold' route of the Pedal Causeway Coast on Sunday, June 28, 2026. This extraordinary feat is only possible thanks to life-changing Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery, a testament to medical advancement and personal resilience. Hannigan aims to leverage this challenge to raise crucial funds and awareness for Parkinson's UK, inspiring others in the Parkinson's community to 'keep going' despite the obstacles. His journey underscores a pivotal moment in Parkinson's treatment, where advanced neurosurgical interventions like DBS offer renewed hope beyond medication alone. Traditional DBS has been instrumental in managing severe motor symptoms, but recent FDA approvals in 2025 for adaptive DBS (aDBS) mark a significant leap, allowing real-time adjustment of stimulation based on individual brain signals, promising more personalized and effective therapy. With Parkinson's projected to affect 25 million people globally by 2050, such innovations, combined with advocacy for timely medication and specialist care championed by organizations like Parkinson's UK, are more critical than ever. Hannigan's upcoming ride across Northern Ireland scenic, yet challenging, Causeway Coast is not just a personal triumph but a potent symbol for the ongoing fight against a progressive neurological condition. As he pushes through the demanding terrain, his efforts will shine a spotlight on the urgent need for continued research, accessible treatments, and robust support systems, driving forward the mission to give back what Parkinson's takes. The global medical and patient community will be watching, hoping his story amplifies the message of perseverance and progress.