When Haseel met a man with Parkinson’s in 2009, everything changed. 

The man shuffled into the clinic, his feet barely lifting off the ground. Freezing had made walking feel impossible. But then Haseel placed visual lines on the floor (simple strips of tape) and watched as the man transformed. His steps grew larger, more confident. The shuffle disappeared.  Haseel reflects:

“Seeing how one small strategy could completely transform his movement inspired me to dedicate my career to helping people with Parkinson’s”

That moment set Haseel on a 16-year journey working with people living with Parkinson’s: first as a researcher, then as a physiotherapist specializing in Parkinson’s care. 

The problem 

Freezing of gait (when feet feel suddenly glued to the floor) is one of the most challenging symptoms of Parkinson’s. It increases fall risk, reduces confidence, and limits independence. 

Many people living with Parkinson’s have limited or no access to a Parkinson’s specialist physiotherapist. Traditional printed exercise sheets don’t show people how to move. 

“I wanted to create something that anyone, anywhere, could use to feel more confident and in control of their movement,” Haseel explains. 

The solution 

Haseel started filming short, practical videos showing evidence-based strategies to manage freezing. 

“I’d always been frustrated by traditional printed exercise sheets that don’t really show people how to move,” Haseel says. Videos make it easier for people living with Parkinson’s (and their families) to actually use these strategies.

When the CARE Fund application opened, Haseel saw an opportunity. I thought: “This could help bring this project to people all across Canada!” 

Parkinson Canada’s CARE Fund supports programs that meet the unique needs of people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners, with a focus on reaching underserved communities. 

What’s next 

Haseel’s video library is now available, offering people living with Parkinson’s and their families practical tools to manage freezing of gait. 

“People living with Parkinson’s deserve strategies that actually make a difference in their day-to-day movement,” Haseel says. He is hopeful that these videos will help people feel more confident and in control.

Watch the program trailer: Video Link for FOG Program  

Learn more about the CARE Fund: parkinson.ca/care-fund