Team Lalonde is walking to raise money for Parkinson Canada.

Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease. Movement is normally controlled by dopamine, a chemical that carries signals between the nerves in the brain. When cells that normally produce dopamine die, the symptoms of Parkinson’s appear. The most common symptoms are tremor, slowness and stiffness, impaired balance, and muscle rigidity. Every Parkinson’s experience is unique. The symptoms and progression will vary from person to person.

More than 100,000 Canadians live with Parkinson’s, a number expected to increase substantially in the coming years, with 30 Canadians diagnosed each day. By 2031, the number of people living with Parkinson’s in Canada will more than double. There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s. 

Money raised supports the increasing need for research, customized programs and services, and advocacy efforts.

Learn more about Parkinson’s Disease: https://www.parkinson.ca/resources/educational-publications/

Learn more about what Parkinson’s Canada accomplished in 2023: https://www.impact.parkinson.ca/ 

Find services with Parkinson Canada's Care Finder directory: 
https://carefinder.parkinson.ca/ 

Looking for a book to read about Parkinson's?

• Lucky Man – Memoir published in 2003 by Michael J. Fox
• Always Looking Up – Memoir published in 2010 by Michael J. Fox
• No Time Like The Future – Memoir published in 2020 by Michael J. Fox
• No Turning Back – Illustrated poem book published in 2023 by John Foley. He describes his personal journey from his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis to deep brain stimulation surgery. Available free online: https://www.michaeljfox.org/books-resources
• My Nana Has Parkinson’s – Children’s book published in 2021 by Trisha Hassler. It is aimed at helping kids understand what it means for them when a family member is diagnosed.

Looking for a Podcast about Parkinson's?

• When Life Gives You Parkinson’s – Podcast hosted by Larry Gifford, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2017. Through laughter and tears, Gifford and his family have opened their lives to the listeners and introduce us to how they and others in the Parkinson’s community are dealing with the symptoms and progression of the disease.  
• You, Me, and PD (Parkinson’s Disease) – Podcast hosted by Jeremy Likness, who was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's Disease in early 2020, and his caregiver and wife, Doreen. They host candid conversations about living with Parkinson's Disease, share stories and tips, and discuss the physical and emotional impact of the diagnosis.