I'm walking the Parkinson Canada SuperWalk to raise money for Parkinson Canada, whose mission is to transform the lives of people living with Parkinson's. Parkinson Canada funds critical research, provides information and support, increases awareness and advocates for improved health care outcomes for people living with Parkinson's across Canada.
Help me ensure Parkinson Canada is here for Canadians living with Parkinson’s today – while funding research into better treatments and one day, a cure.
Please support my SuperWalk fundraiser. Together, we can have an immeasurable impact on the research being done, the services being offered, and the people being helped every day.
Here are some inspiring words from my friend and team captain Julie Wood:
"I think most of you know that I was diagnosed with Parkinson's just over 10 years ago. It's a nasty little disease, and there is currently no cure for it. We don't even know what causes it. What we do know is that over 100,000 people in Canada have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and it is the fastest growing neurological disorder in the world. It's like a life sentence, with no time off for good behaviour.
I was pretty devastated when I first found out that I had Parkinson’s, but in 10 years you learn to cope with it. That doesn't mean to give in, but to fight back with the best resources possible.
Money is needed, for research into what causes the disease, how to make life more bearable for those who have it, and thinking ahead, a vaccine to stamp it out. And, if we can work globally to develop a vaccine for COVID 19 in less than a year, maybe we can do something similar with Parkinson’s. Since my diagnosis I have participated in more than 30 trials and studies. I still believe there will be good news during my lifetime, probably either stem cells, repurposing drugs or DNA analysis.
So, I'll be strapping on my trusty running shoes for the SuperWalk 2022, which takes place on Saturday 10 September. I will try to do the 5k run, but it will probably turn in to a 5K walk. This is the first year that I have felt unable to run 5K, so it's a bit of a marker for me showing that the disease is progressing, albeit slowly. "
Your support is much appreciated. Thank you!
Judi