This will be my 10th Pedaling for Parkinson's (P4P) fundraising event. This family oriented cycling event has morphed several times in the past years, however it has kept its focus on raising funds for research. Best of all, your donated dollars have gone directly to new ground breaking research. Over all the years P4P rides have generated more than $2 million in Parkinson's related research!
Parkinson's is a neurodegenerative disease in which the lack of dopamine inhibits the signals between the neurons in the brain causing movement and thinking difficulties. As cells that normally produce dopamine die, the symptoms of Parkinson's start to appear more and more. There is currently no cure for Parkinson's. However, with your support, we can fund the research required to create a brighter future for Canadians living with Parkinson's today - and eventually, a world without Parkinson's.
The past year had been rough on me as my movement and balance had gone downhill much more quickly than I expected. Each year I notice that a few more of my Parkinson's cycling buddies are no longer able to ride. It is hard not to forsee a future without the freedom and pleasure that cycling bring me. Although the progression of my symptoms are interfering with my mobility more and more, I am grateful to be able to continue to cycle. Since being diagnosed in 1999, my symptoms have developed more slowly with YOPD (Young Onset Parkinson's Disease) which is typical. The past several months have brought home the possibility of having to give up my favourite exercise.
I appreciate the brilliant medical team at TWH, both clinicians and researchers, who have contributed to my wellbeing and certainly my ability to enjoy events such as this one. The key to my unexpected years of care is the support of a loving circle of friends and family that have stood beside me and helped me to overcome the difficulties that Parkinson's presents have been the most valued gift to me.
This event is my one annual shot at fundraising. In the past years, my supporters have been incredibly generous and I ask for your donations again this year. The event organizers are working alongside sponsors and Parkinson Canada to ensure that all rider pledges are directed to the Pedaling for Parkinson's Research Grants. For more information about this amazing community ride, the research it funds, and the volunteer organizers who make it all happen. Please visit their website https://pedalingforparkinsons.ca
Pedaling for Parkinson's this year will be held in Orangeville on August 19-20, 2023. My preparation starts today. Please support me in this important mission by visiting my fundraising page and making a contribution. Giving a tax-deductible donation online makes supporting the Pedaling for Parkinson's Research Grants quick and easy. If you would prefer, you can send your contribution to the address listed below. Make all cheques payable to Parkinson Canada and please put Pedaling/Doug Duke in the Memo field.
To make a donation online now, please visit my personal page: http://donate.parkinson.ca/goto/doug-duke
To mail your donation, please use this address:
ATTN: Pedaling for Parkinson's, Parkinson Canada, 316-4211 Yonge Street, Toronto ON M2P 2A9 (Pedaling/Doug Duke in the Memo Field).
Thank you for all your support past and present,
Doug