Parksville Qualicum Beach will be supporting the 32nd Annual Parkinson SuperWalk, which is set to take place in more than 20 communities across B.C.
The largest fundraising event to help Parkinson Society British Columbia will be held at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Saturday, Sept. 10 starting at 10 a.m.
Since 1990, SuperWalk has provided a platform for increased awareness of the needs of those affected by Parkinson’s disease. Funds raised support Parkinson Society British Columbia’s programs, support services and contributions to research.
Among the dedicated volunteers is Doug Pickard, who knows first-hand the value an event like SuperWalk can bring to a community.
Pickard has been involved with the Parkinson’s community in Parksville for 14 years, as a fitness instructor, local support group facilitator and SuperWalk organizer. He is inviting residents to take part in the SuperWalk.
“This event is important for more reasons than just fundraising,” Pickard said. “It is a time and place for people with Parkinson’s to come together in a social situation. It gives people a sense that they are not alone and sparks feelings of hope.”
READ MORE: Parksville pickleball club starts program to help people with Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s is a unique and unpredictable condition. The disease affects everyone differently, and impacts all aspects of their life and the lives of their loved ones.
“Parkinson SuperWalk is an opportunity to raise awareness of the realities of living with this disease, while celebrating the strength and resilience of our community,” said Jean Blake, CEO of Parkinson Society British Columbia. “This event helps fund life-changing programs and services like counselling, support groups, exercise programs, and much more. After hosting SuperWalk in B.C. virtually for two years, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are looking forward to welcoming participants back in person in 2022, so that everyone touched by Parkinson’s knows they are not alone.”
For more than 50 years, Parkinson Society British Columbia has been dedicated in supporting, educating and empowering the Parkinson’s community. The society has advocated for better care for those living with Parkinson’s, including increased access to medications and treatment, greater support for caregivers and specialized education for health-care professionals.
For more information on Parkinson SuperWalk in B.C, how to register a team and how to donate, visit: www.parkinson.bc.ca/superwalk.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder with no known cure. With over 100,000 people diagnosed across Canada, it is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s. The worldwide incidence of Parkinson’s disease is expected to double by 2040. Treatment is focused on symptom management, most often through exercise and medication.
— NEWS Staff, submitted