TV's Paul Sinha has insisted he is "fighting" Parkinson's after being diagnosed with the degenerative disorder.
The comedian, who is famous for his regular appearances on The Chase, will appear on Loose Men to talk about his 2019 diagnosis alongside Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay, boxer Tommy Fury and Martin Kemp. The all-male panel is to mark Mental Health Awareness Week on ITV, the MirrorOnline reports.
Discussing his Parkinson’s diagnosis, he said: “I have Parkinson’s. It is a tough call, and it will get tougher for me. In the years that I have ahead of me, I want to do my best to show that it doesn’t have to ruin your quality of life, and that you can fight against the stereotypes others have of you. For that reason, when I’m out and about, I try even harder to look my best. I want people to know that I am not vanishing, I’m still fighting as hard as ever.”
Read more: The Chase viewers complain 'please stop' over ITV studio 'issue'
Paul said he enjoyed making his debut on the show, adding: "“It was a little nerve-wracking, but so is any new experience. I was made to feel at home though." He also said he was delighted that the show continued to smash taboos talking about men’s mental and physical health.
He said: “It’s important for everyone, not just men, to realise that however hard we try, we are not perfect, either physically or mentally. Traditionally, men have been discouraged to seek help, by believing that it’s a sign of weakness.
“But in all walks of life, a problem shared is a problem halved; or at the very least reduced. I hope that the message is getting through, but if it isn’t, I’d like to do my bit to help.”
* Watch Loose Men on Thursday at 12.30pm on ITV1 & ITVX
Read next:
- Netflix's Queen Charlotte viewer points out inaccuracy in Bridgerton spin-off
- Where Eurovision 2024 will be held and how host country is decided for song contest
- Eurovision 2023 semi final 2 countries and running order and countries including fan favourites Austria
- When is Eurovision 2023 final? Contest gets going in Liverpool with semis at 37 countries compete
- Ruth Langsford issues Loose Women 'warning' as viewer complaints predicted
