Grandson Brenden inspired by his love for 'Poppy'

Proud grandparent Bob Judge's entire heart is filled with pride for his only grandson, Brenden.

Pride of Australia

MOST grandparents have a special place in their heart for their grandchildren, but Bob Judge's entire heart is filled with pride for his only grandson, Brenden.

"He gives me a reason to get out of bed every day," Mr Judge says.

In 2009, the 65-year-old told his then 11-year-old grandson that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Brenden, who is now 14, took the matter into his own hands.

He decided to do all he could to help his beloved "Poppy".

"I wanted to help out to find a cure," Brenden said.

Four years on, the Aitken College student has single-handedly raised more than $10,000 for Parkinson's Victoria.

Brenden has stunned his family and friends with a string of self-starter efforts, championing the cause through door knocking, car washing, chores, garage sales and even writing personalised emails to everyone he knows.

"I'm very excited and proud of Brenden," Mr Judge said.

Brenden hopes his efforts will spread awareness of the disease.

Brenden's proud mother, Janelle Judge, nominated Brenden for the Community Spirit category in this year's Pride of Australia awards.

Mrs Judge said Brenden even went to the extent of tying his shoe laces together and undoing them with oven mitts on his hands to demonstrate the everyday struggles of Parkinson's sufferers like his grandfather.

"He is selfless and always thinks of others. For a person so young he has a lot to give," she said.