Parkinson Society Canada congratulates and thanks all the many participants who came together – walkers, volunteers and donors, bringing a spirit of hope to raise funds for Parkinson Society Canada at its annual Parkinson SuperWalk, the largest fundraising event for Canadians living with Parkinson’s.
“Parkinson SuperWalk is my way of connecting to people in our community living with Parkinson’s,” says Alain Garçeau, dedicated Parkinson SuperWalk participant, diagnosed at age 45. “On this day we honour those living with the condition and show gratitude to those like my wife and children who are such a tremendous source of support to me, and whom I cannot thank enough for their strength and love.”
Walkers of all ages, and even some four-legged canine friends, joined forces as they were cheered on by family members, loved ones and neighbours in the annual walk which has raised $2.4 million so far this September.
“Being heard, being understood and sharing one’s experiences can make a huge difference in the lives of people with Parkinson’s,” says Joyce Gordon, president and CEO of Parkinson Society Canada. “We want Canadians touched by Parkinson’s to know that there is a huge network of support, where people can speak freely about their condition with someone who understands; we want Canadians with Parkinson’s to know that they are not alone.”
Proceeds from the event allow Parkinson Society Canada to fund a broad range of resources and support, in person, in print and online, for individuals, like Alain, to help them along their Parkinson’s journey, in communities all across Canada.
Parkinson Society Canada gratefully acknowledges the generosity of Parkinson SuperWalk national sponsors: Teva Canada Innovation, Naturegg, Sharp AQUOS® and Roots.
Online donations for Parkinson SuperWalk will continue to be accepted until October 3, 2011 at parkinsonsuperwalk.ca.
Walking for people living with Parkinson’s
“Months after meeting a new friend whose grandmother has Parkinson’s, I found myself taking part in Parkinson SuperWalk at McGuire Lake Park. Together with dozens more people dressed in the year’s event T-shirt, we walked not only to raise awareness, but many had raised funds for the Parkinson Society. Many from the Sicamous Eagles (hockey team) were present, helping seniors from the surrounding seniors’ homes, as they pushed their wheelchairs around the small lake. Informational pamphlets were widely available to anyone who wanted to learn more about Parkinson’s disease or Parkinson Society and its mission. Refreshments were available to participants who stood around afterwards to mingle and converse, many of them sharing stories about how Parkinson’s had touched their lives.” New Parkinson SuperWalk supporter and Facebook fan, Ben Stewart of Salmon Arm, B.C.
Read more of Ben’s story in his blog post (original content available in English only):http://www.shuswapgroove.com/arts-culture/community/parkinsons-superwalk.html.