Today, September 5th, 2020, is a very special day.

Today, I celebrate my mom Patricia Hansen’s 80th birthday.

Today, I am also reminded of the weighty challenges my mom has had over the years and of the awesome resilience she has shown through those challenges.

Having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease just over 20 years ago, she has met the increasing impediments with equal determination.

My mom is a bright light. For those who know her, you will know what I mean. That light, and a certain ‘sparkle’, comes through in her every interaction. She loves people and I believe that light is her gift — and that it becomes a gift to those around her. I also imagine that her light shines on both the outside and the inside, as it seems to illuminate her path and give her the strength to always take another step.

Still walking, in just one week, on Saturday, September 12th, my mom will participate in her third Parkinson SuperWalk. My husband John and I can’t be with her in person this year but we will be with her, virtually, every step of the way. We will be joined by a wonderful team that includes my sister, Teri Hansen, and the Linton family: Daniel Linton, Amanda Linton, Karen-Amy Linton, and Zachary Linton.

No Matter What, we will walk.

If you think of us next Saturday morning, we appreciate your cheers from the virtual sidelines.

If you are able to make a small donation, we appreciate any amount you can offer — it all counts.

Your donation fuels better health outcomes for Canadians living with Parkinson's today, and it supports the Parkinson Canada Research Program which works with Canada's brightest researchers to find the next big breakthroughs in treatment.

Help me ensure Parkinson Canada is there for Canadians living with Parkinson’s today – while funding research into better treatments and one day, a cure. 

To show your support, click the DONATE NOW button on the right-hand side of the page, above the progress meter and achievements.

Every dollar means new hope. Thank you!

Your gift shows support for the Parkinson Community. It shows them that no matter how things change and no matter what days may bring there is strength in numbers. With unwavering spirits - letting no obstacle hold us back. No matter what.