Mr. Papworth had been looking forward to a well-earned retirement after a lifetime of teaching but all this fell apart when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease just over nine years ago.

Traditional treatment with medication only stalled off the horrible reality and his condition faltered in such a way that he needed help for just about every function he attempted.

Phil decided enough was enough and sought medical opinion on undertaking the still regarded radical treatment of deep brain stimulation.

The treatment involved rolling back the scalp, drilling two holes in the skull and then inserting electrodes that begin the stimulation. Put simply, the electrodes wires are then connected to a neurostimulator (like a pacemaker) which is inserted in the chest.

The operation was carried out at the North Shore Private Hospital with a medical team of 11 over seven to eight hours when, at times, Mr. Papworth was partially awake.

The operation took place on February 4 and the results have been nothing short of amazing. Subsequent check-ups have pleased his doctors and indications are he will enjoy good health for at least eight to 10 years.

Mr. Papworth said he is just so grateful for what has been done and said the outcome has been a massive relief.

He said the way his body had been deteriorating he could expect no future other than that full nursing home care.

Mr. Papworth said he wanted to pass on details of the operation and let people know that there is hope and that his life has been changed dramatically. He said he would be happy to talk to anyone wanting to know more about the procedure.

Mr. Papworth also heads up a Coalfields Parkinson’s Support Group that meets at Kurri Bowling Club on the second Monday of the month at 10am.

He said that as well as wanting others to know what can be achieved, he particularly wanted to thank family and friends for the tremendous support and encouragement they gave him and how this helped him cope.

He’s now back on the bowling green at Bellbird Park and continuing with his role as treasurer there.