THE CHASE’S Paul ‘Sinnerman’ Sinha has said he’s “fighting as hard as ever” after sharing an update on his battle with Parkinson’s disease.
During Thursday’s episode of Loose Women, which has been changed to Loose Men to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, the quiz master gave ITV1 viewers a health update.
The Chase star Paul, 52, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s two years after he experienced the symptom of a “sudden-onset, frozen right shoulder”.
Parkinson’s is a condition where parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years and symptoms include involuntary shaking of parts of the body, slow movement and stiff and inflexible muscles.
The star appeared alongside Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay, boxer Tommy Fury and actor Martin Kemp as he opened up about the disease.
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He told viewers and his fellow panelists: "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."
Urging men watching at home to be open about their physical, mental and emotional 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."
The Chase star has been incredibly open about his condition since being diagnosed with Parkinson’s and fans have rushed to give him support.
Paul previously said his diagnosis made him want to live life to the fullest.
He said: “For me now, it’s more in a broader sense enjoying life, embracing life and enjoying the company of great people.”
