SuperWalk is one of Canada’s largest annual Parkinson events. It’s a time for Canadians living with Parkinson’s across the and their supporters to rally and stand up to Parkinson’s. It is a place of community, where connections are made and stories are shared. SuperWalk raises critical funds, allowing us to expand our resources and services, enabling new research funding, and ensures better advocacy to meet the needs of the Parkinson community.
Check out some of the inspiring stories from members of the SuperWalk community about who they are and why they walk.
Michelle Carlson
SuperWalk organizer, Parkinson Canada
For over a decade, Michelle has been at the forefront of SuperWalk as an organizer and participant. Initially coming into the role as an event planner, her meticulous attention to detail and innovative ideas allowed her to excel, becoming critical to its success. The Walk in a Box concept was her idea, allowing SuperWalk to continue virtually and in underserved areas. “I fell in love with the stories and energy of people living with Parkinson’s.” Michelle said, “their resilience, energy and spirit leave an impact on me every day.” SuperWalk is a place where people with Parkinson’s can connect, a place of community, a place where no one needs to be alone. Michelle is excited by the continuing growth and connections made at SuperWalk and she looks forward to seeing you at the next one.
Emmy Shiffman and Sharon Facella
SuperWalk fundraisers
We all walk in SuperWalk for someone. Some of us walk for parents, some for siblings, spouses or friends, and some of us walk for ourselves.
For sisters Emmy Shiffman and Sharon Facella, they SuperWalk for their beloved late father, Ary, who passed away in 2019 with Parkinson’s. Diagnosed at age 50, Ary underwent many treatments, operations and clinical trials over the years to help him live with Parkinson’s.
Ary participated in clinical trials because he believed that they would someday make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson’s. Although Ary is gone, his memory is not. Emmy and Sharon have been walking for almost 15 years, tirelessly raising funds in their father’s honour to create a better future for people living with Parkinson’s. Last year they even became one of the top 3 fundraising teams in Toronto!
No matter who you walk for, you’re making a difference in the lives of people living with Parkinson’s, and at SuperWalk you’re never alone. As Emmy and Sharon said, “We believe in the sense of community, and seeing others living with the same challenges makes us feel like we are not alone in our fight.”
Don Tallman
SuperWalk fundraiser
Don Tallman is no stranger to SuperWalk, and in 2024, he’s ready for another round.
Don was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2018, and within three days he had joined his first boxing class. Within five weeks, he was doing his first SuperWalk. He and his team, Boxing 4 Health, are one of the top fundraising teams, and Don himself was the top fundraiser of 2022. Don’s doughty spirit is inspiring other SuperWalk participants to reach new fundraising milestones, but he needs your help!
Join Don this year at SuperWalk as we work to put Parkinson’s on the ropes. Your fundraising efforts provide critical resources for research, care, and events that transform the lives of people living with Parkinson’s.
Ready to share your story at SuperWalk? Learn more about SuperWalk here.