2023 has been a busy year for us at Parkinson Canada. We’ve been hard at work making sure the needs of people living with Parkinson’s are being met, and their voices are heard. Let’s reflect on some of the biggest events. launches and highlights from 2023 that we’ve accomplished together.
Programs and services
CareFinder
In 2023 Parkinson Canada officially launched CareFinder – an innovative, user-friendly online directory designed to connect you with Parkinson’s-informed services based on your location. Simply enter what you are searching for, add your postal code, and access a community of support, from movement disorder specialists to essential wellness programs. This powerful resource directs you towards tailored services, programs, and supports in your community.
Parkinson’s IQ + You
Parkinson Canada teamed up with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to host Parkinson’s IQ + You in Dartmouth, NS on Oct. 28, 2023. This free in-person event was the first of its kind in Canada. It was an empowering experience for people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners in Atlantic Canada to learn tips on managing the disease, hearing about the latest research, and connecting with local resources.
Research
2nd Annual Movement Disorders Meeting
On Nov. 24-25, Parkinson Canada hosted a two-day event featuring over 150 experts from across the country, coming together for the second time ever in Canada. It involved networking, presentations on the latest scientific research and discussions on ways to better equip healthcare systems to diagnose and treat movement disorders. This event forged new connections and collaborations in our shared mission to better understand and treat Parkinson’s disease. Read more about the conference here.
World Parkinson Congress
Back in July, Parkinson Canada travelled to Barcelona, Spain to attend the World Parkinson Congress. We learned a lot at the event about groundbreaking developments and research currently underway around the world. If you missed it, check out our blog where we break down some of the highlights from each day of the conference.
Advocacy
Hill Day
In October, Parkinson Canada travelled to Parliament Hill. Our goal was to raise awareness of Parkinson’s with elected officials and ensure that the voices of people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners are being heard by the federal government. We’re happy to report that the day was a resounding success as we were able to raise many of our concerns with parliamentarians. Read more about Hill Day here.
Your voice matters!
Earlier this year the federal government passed legislation laying the groundwork for a Canada Disability Benefit, and we need your input. We’re advocating to ensure that the benefit will meet the needs of people with Parkinson’s and we’d like you to provide your feedback using the government’s online engagement tool. The more people from our community that respond, the more likely that the program will meet our needs, so be sure to provide your input by Dec. 21, 2023. Check out the tool here.
Events
33rd annual Superwalk
Parkinson Canada’s annual Superwalk is one of our biggest events. It raises money that is critical for funding innovative new research, as well as key programs and services to help people living with Parkinson’s thrive. It’s an amazing opportunity for people living with Parkinson’s and their supporters to get out, make connections and have their voices heard! This year we hosted the 33rd annual Superwalk, bringing together people from across Canada. Read more about Superwalk here.