Sir Billy Connolly has said that he’s willing to be a "guinea pig" in a bid to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease through stem cell research.
The comedian, who was diagnosed with the illness five years ago, reveals in his new book that he’s been in touch with scientists at Harvard University, where stem cell scientists are leading global research into the disease.
Sir Billy, 75, also tells of his dream to continue performing as he reveals how the incurable condition has dominated his life so much he’s had to step back from the stage.
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Billy Connolly
Inside his knighthood ‘Performing is my only escape’ Why wife never tours with him Parky’s a "daft old fart"
In an extract published by The Scotsman , Billy says: "I’ve spoken to guys working on it at Harvard and told them I’ll be a guinea pig for them.
"I think they are going to take me up on that."
It comes after the Scottish funnyman hit back at claims he could no longer remember his oldest friends.
The comedian and wife Pamela branded Sir Michael Parkinson a "daft old fart" after he said Billy’s Parkinson’s disease meant he could no longer recognise some of his pals.
Billy blasted his friend’s comments, saying: "I would recognise Parky if he was standing behind me – in a diving suit."
Parkinson , 83, had described an "awkward dinner" he had with his close friend, who was diagnosed with the condition in 2013.
Pamela, 68, insisted her husband was "doing great" and insisted Parkinson didn’t know anything about the current state of his health.
She said: "Mike Parkinson is a daft old fart – doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Billy’s doing great and still funny as hell."
Her comments were backed up by a statement from production company Indigo Television, who have made documentaries with Connolly and are currently working with him on a series where he tours around Scotland.
They said: "We have been busy filming with Billy over the summer and can report happily that he’s on top form – as sharp and hilarious as ever.
"We were speaking with his wife Pamela Stephenson only today and she is pretty sure that Billy has no more problem recognising old friends than anyone else of his age who has lived abroad for years."
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