I made sure I always had enough for food and fuel. But some weeks — after paying for everything — I had only $38 left in my bank account for the fortnight.

We weren’t financially savvy and lived from pay to pay. Saving wasn’t something we did regularly.

‘I’m still not sure where I found the extra money’

I’m still not sure where I found the extra money — but I made it happen.

When Jen was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, she decided she would make the most of her ‘good years’ and get her scuba diving license. Source: Supplied

In 2014, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. I was told I had five good years left.

My main goal was to keep my house, which I viewed — and still view — as my long-term security.

‘Never considered stopping’

Fortunately, my workplace supported me by allowing remote work, and I began driving for Uber between medical procedures for extra cash flow.

I had periods of financial stability and periods of real struggle, but I never considered stopping contributing that 10 per cent of my income.

An unlikely catalyst

I only wish I had started doing so sooner.

Relying on someone else can be risky and you never know what life will bring.

Jen with one of her grandchildren; and Jen with her daughters. Source: Supplied

Twelve years on from my Parkinson’s diagnosis, I am managing well; but I know it is a degenerative illness that will only get worse.