Boothroyd diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease

A person with Parkinson’s disease can experience a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms.

Boothroyd says his main symptom is facial masking, which impacts the facial muscles and makes it hard for others to interpret your mood.

“My face in my opinion could be outwardly smiling but actually it’s not doing that at all,” he said.

“I’ve had so many people say ‘you’re not your normal self, you’re so quiet’.

“Nothing could be further from the truth. I’m enthusiastic, I’m excited. I still enjoy the job and working with people, but that was a tough one to take.”

Despite the diagnosis Boothroyd was keen to continue working, having short coaching spells with Sheffield United and Northern Ireland before a year managing Indian side Jamshedpur.

He says going public with his disease brings a sense of relief, but he does not want it to prevent him from doing what he loves.

“I don’t want to wallow. I don’t want pity,” he said. “I’ll continue, I’ll keep fit. I’ll do whatever I have got to do in the gym and hopefully, I can get a job with a purpose.

“But for now it’s about getting this off my chest and seeing if I can bring more awareness to this condition.”