Swift Current gearing up for Parkinson Superwalk on August 31
For the 29th time, Parkinson Canada is getting ready for their national event, the Superwalk. Through this event, thousands of Canadians will be coming together to walk in support of people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Richard Lake, a regular Superwalk participant, first became involved in the walk through his local support group three years ago.
“The walk is a big part of our local support group and it is one way to contribute towards a cure. It is a good, positive activity for all people living with Parkinson’s and becomes an opportunity to bond further with those that live with the disease,” Lake said.
Since being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Lake has needed to give up some of his favourite activities, such as downhill skiing, golfing, curling and bike touring. However, he is not letting his diagnosis bring him down. In his support group, Lake always tries to make a connection with every member and ensures newcomers feel welcome. His efforts to maintain the wellbeing of all of the group participants have not gone unnoticed and, this year, Lake has been nominated the Support Group Hero – a representative for the support group chosen because of their determination to helping others.
This never give up attitude is in line with this year’s campaign theme for Parkinson Canada Superwalk ‘No Matter What’ which is meant to represent the strength of spirit and perseverance exhibited by people with Parkinson’s across the country.
Another reason for Richard Lake’s Hero title is his dedication to the Parkinson Canada Superwalk. Lake has been on the event planning committee ever since he joined the support group, doing everything from collecting sponsorships to encouraging friends to join his team, “Shakey Lakey”.
“I believe that it supports research towards a cure and how to live well with the disease,” says Lake when asked what motivated him to keep walking. “Our efforts provide an opportunity for fellowship among other Parkinsonians, friends, family, and caregivers. It raises awareness in our community and on social media. Most of all, it provides me with a chance to contribute towards a cure. It gives me hope.”
Parkinson’s affects more than 100,000 Canadians, with 25 people being diagnosed every day. The numbers of diagnoses are expected to increase to 51 by 2031. Continued support is needed in order to fund research to find a cure and the Superwalk is an opportunity to fundraise for the cause. Since 1981, Parkinson Canada has invested more than $29 million in research.
“We want to thank Superwalk participants who continue to raise significant funds and increase public awareness of our charity,” says Joyce Gordon, CEO of 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.”
Saturday, August 31, Richard Lake and “Team Shakey Lakey” will be walking in the Swift Current Superwalk. Join them and many others at the Riverview Village Estates, in the Great Room, at 9:30 a.m. to check in. The walk will begin at 10 a.m. You can register online today at www.superwalk.ca.
About Parkinson Canada
Parkinson Canada provides services and education to people living with Parkinson’s disease, their families, and the healthcare professionals who treat them. Operating since 1965, the organization advocates on issues that concern the Parkinson’s community in Canada. The Parkinson Canada Research Program funds innovative research for better treatments and a cure. A national registered charity, Parkinson Canada fulfils its mission through the generosity of donors and is an accredited organization under the Imagine Canada Standards Program. Parkinson Canada participates in numerous coalitions and partnerships to effectively fulfil its mission.