Thank You from the Research Community
Your support of Life Lists Challenge has an impact across each of our four areas of focus, all of which bring support and new hope to Canadians living with Parkinson’s.
For many, that hope is embodied by research. The research community shares the hope that one day, we’ll live in a world without Parkinson’s.
Until that time, they’re thankful for people like you making a difference through events like Life Lists Challenge, and want to share that message with you.
Dr. Naomi Visanji, Toronto Western Hospital
I've been passionately involved with research in Parkinson's disease since studying for my PhD in London 14 years ago. However, my mother's Parkinson's diagnosis in 2010 caused my interest in the disease to evolve drastically - my view of Parkinson's changed from that of an engaging and exciting scientific question into a much more personal issue. Seeing first-hand the challenges Parkinson's creates in patients living their everyday lives was a very humbling experience for me as a basic scientist. I strongly believe this fairly unique perspective has made me a better researcher.
I think it's important to know that the research community shares your acknowledgement that fundraising is essential to providing needed support services, education and advocacy on behalf of Canadians living with Parkinson's, and also to taking the next step toward discovering better treatments, information on causes of Parkinson's, and ultimately a cure.
Parkinson Canada not only provides important support services, education and advocacy, but also supports vital basic and clinical research into multiple aspects of Parkinson's disease. As both a researcher and a caregiver, I am extremely grateful for all that Parkinson Canada does to improve services for people living with Parkinson's, while investing in research to further our understanding of this complex disease and improve future therapeutic options.
I strongly believe that through a shared commitment amongst researchers, patients and caregivers in the fight against Parkinson's and support of research, there is hope. Thank you for supporting the Life Lists Challenge and the great work of Parkinson Canada!
Dr. Naomi Visanji
Dr. Joseph De Souza York University
As an organization, our goal is a future where those living with Parkinson's have the tools to live well, and where future generations don't have to worry about receiving a diagnosis. In the meantime, Life Lists Challenge participants working together to achieve their own goals helps us get closer to ours. Moreover, it helps us provide direct support to people living with Parkinson's and vital funding for research in the interim. So - thank you for supporting Life Lists Challenge.
Dr. Joseph DeSouza, a beneficiary of your fundraising efforts through our National Research Program, wants to share his thanks and an update on his unique research with you as well:
