Sock-filled event shines light on Huntington’s Disease support group

Treetops was filled with a colourful display of mismatched socks this week, as the Huntington’s Disease peer support group held an “Odds and Socks” event.

Patients, family members, carers, volunteers and hospice staff donned their quirkiest odd socks and enjoyed a sock-themed cake to help raise awareness of the disease which affects approximately 7,000 people in the UK.

Huntington’s Disease is a condition that damages nerve cells in the brain, causing them to stop working properly. Over time, the disease affects movement, cognition, and mental health.

The support has been life-changing

Anne-Marie, 48, and her husband Richard, 50, from Stapleford, have been coming to the monthly group for just over a year.

Anne-Marie was diagnosed two years ago with Huntington’s Disease. She said:

“Coming to terms with having the disease and knowing that your mental capacity is deteriorating is a real challenge. This time last year, I wasn’t myself. I was sad and depressed. I’d lost my confidence and was coming to terms with showing symptoms.

“Treetops and the support group have been phenomenal. There’s support for me, support for Richard as a carer, and support in place for our children. It’s been life-changing.

“We’ve made friendships and meet up outside of the group. And the staff and volunteers support and treat you so well. They really see you as a unique individual.”

Support to keep your quality of life for as long as possible

Richard added:

“Although I enjoy caring for Anne-Marie, coming here is a break and I can relax. It’s like a battery recharge. At home, I’d be thinking, ‘the washing’s on, I need to do the ironing, what shall we have for tea?’ Here, that’s all gone.

“You can share stories and experiences with others in a similar situation, and it’s sociable. And you realise all the support that Treetops has to offer to keep your quality of life for as long as possible.”

About the Huntington’s Disease Support Group

The Huntington’s Disease peer support group meet monthly at Treetops in Risley, to share experiences, information and advice.

The Support Group is a joint venture between Treetops Hospice and the Huntington’s Disease Association.

The theme of ‘odd socks’ is being used by the Huntington’s Disease Association to represent the 50:50 odds of inheriting the Huntington’s gene from a parent with the disease. National Odds and Socks Day takes place across the UK on Thursday 27 February 2025.