The Walk for Parkinson’s will take place in Grand Bend this Sunday, bringing the community together to raise awareness and support for people living with the disease.
Ann Steer, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s three years ago, is taking part for the third year in a row.
Participants will gather at the Grand Bend Legion at 1 p.m. for registration and to hand in pledge sheets. The event will wrap up by about 3:30 p.m.
Not everyone will walk the full distance. Some participants with more advanced Parkinson’s may choose to rest partway and rejoin the group on the return. The goal is for everyone to enjoy the day together.
After the walk, there will be pizza, music, and an auction featuring items donated by local businesses. Announcements will also recognize participants and groups who raised funds.
Grace Ki, Marketing and Communications Specialist for the organization, explained that the walk is held in 14 locations across the region. Participants can register online at walkforpd.ca or in person on the day of the event.
Parkinson’s disease is one of the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorders. It is caused by the loss of dopamine in the brain, a chemical messenger that helps control movement.
Ki explains this affects both motor and non-motor functions, leading to tremors, rigidity, loss of balance, and emotional challenges such as anxiety and depression. She says that mental health is something they’re working on.
She emphasized that Parkinson’s impacts not only those diagnosed but also their care partners and families. The Parkinson’s Society also works with caregivers, recognizing the challenges they face.
Funds raised through the walk stay local and are vital to the society’s work. Donations support research projects, educational workshops, online resources, and regional support groups that improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s locally.
Written by: K. Milhomens / J. Hall