Parkinson Canada, the definitive voice of the Parkinson community in Canada for over 50 years, is pleased to announce that the Parkinson Canada SuperWalk 2018 will take place September 8 through 16 in communities across Canada. Over 10,000 participants and 4,000 fundraising walkers will come together to raise over $2.4 million.
SuperWalk has raised over $37 million since the first walk took place in 1990, launched by 15 volunteers who marched up Bathurst Street in Toronto.
Parkinson’s affects over 100,000 Canadians, a number expected to increase substantially in the coming years, with 25 Canadians diagnosed each day. Continued support is needed in order to fund research to find a cure. Since 1981 the generosity of donors including SuperWalk supporters, has enabled Parkinson Canada to invest more than $27 million in 528 research projects.
“We want to thank SuperWalk participants who continue to raise significant funds and increase public awareness of our charity,” says Joyce Gordon, CEO, Parkinson Canada. “These funds help us to greatly impact the lives of those living with Parkinson’s, their caregivers and healthcare professionals, and offer hope for a future without Parkinson’s. For these individuals, a cure can’t wait.”
People living with Parkinson’s will be joined by family and friends across the country, along with healthcare professionals and dedicated volunteers, in the spirit of “No Matter What.”
This year, Parkinson Canada is taking a moment after the walk to shine a light on Everyday Heroes across the country, who showcase the “No Matter What” resiliency and strength of spirit in their daily lives. In 2017, the organization selected Ardyce Glessing from over 100 nominees, of Wadena, Saskatchewan. Ardyce has not let her Parkinson diagnosis in 2008 change her life or relationship with family and friends. She reflects, “When someone has Parkinson’s the whole family and everyone who loves them do too. We must not dwell on what we can’t do and be thankful for what we can.”
Visit the SuperWalk website for information about opportunities to participate in this year’s event.