For the third year, the Parkinson SuperWalk will be returning to Wakamow Valley, joining the six other walks that are taking place across the province to put a spotlight on those affected by Parkinson disease.
Parkinson Canada puts on the walks nationwide, and all of the proceeds are put towards the organization's various research, support, and education projects.
This year’s walk is hoping to keep up the good work, with the usual 2 km route planned for Sept. 7, beginning at the Kinsmen-Wellesley Pavilion at 1 p.m. Registration is already open online, for both team and individual walkers.
Michelle Carlson, a representative from Parkinson Canada, said the national fundraiser has raised over $38 million in the 29 years it’s been going, and Moose Jaw’s walk brought in over $18,000 last year alone.
Carlson encourages people to get involved — whether it’s by walking or donating, the cause is worth the effort.
“We're finding that when an event like this happens. . . those that are living with the disease, who aren't aware, are finding out that they aren't alone and they have support to help them through their journey with Parkinson's,” said Carlson.
As part of the walk’s promotion this year, Parkinson Canada is highlighting a local hero for each walk. In Moose Jaw, that local hero is Richard Molde, who was diagnosed in 2000 and has been a participant in the walk since it's inaugural event in 2016.
Molde joined the support group in this area in 2013 and has since been chosen as the group’s representative because of his determination and positive attitude.
Team Molde raised $3,000 for the SuperWalk last year, and host their own fundraiser to garner support: Pedal for Parkinson's, a barbeque and timed bike race.
The SuperWalk is always a success, no matter what the total funds raised are, because it also offers a sense of camaraderie and companionship for those who participate.
In Canada, 25 people are diagnosed with Parkinson’s every day, and more than 100,000 people are affected by the disease.
“We need to fundraise to find a cure. We can't do it without that, we need to fund research,” said Carlson. “We're always trying to raise more awareness, more dollars.”
To register for the walk, head online and fill out the form to begin collecting donations. Carlson even noted that in past years, people who couldn’t make it on walk day have still signed up, raised money, and walked from wherever they were.
More information about Parkinson Canada is available on their website or by calling their toll-free line at 1 (800) 565-3000.
