ALMA, N.S. — For the 29th time, Parkinson Canada is getting ready for its national event, Parkinson SuperWalk.
Through this event, thousands of Canadians will be coming together to walk in support of people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Josephine Jollymore is being recognized as a local hero for this year's event in Pictou County. Jollymore has been the president of the Pictou County Chapter Parkinson Support Group since 2003. At the time, her husband Gordon was living with Parkinson’s disease. When Gordon passed away in 2005, she filled her time by supporting others.
Jollymore provides an opportunity to share and facilitate friendships. She does this not only through the support group, but also through events such as a backyard picnic she organized for the group during a summer recess. When group members move into assisted care homes, the support group goes to visit them before the holidays. Everyone knows that Jollymore's advice, guidance and concern is always just a telephone call away.
On top of being president of the support group, Jollymore is an active participant in Parkinson SuperWalk and, in 2018, she raised more than $3,500.
The theme of this year’s Parkinson Canada SuperWalk is ‘No Matter What,’ which represents the strength of spirit and perseverance exhibited by people who’s lives are affected by Parkinson’s across the country.
“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.”
The Pictou County SuperWalk will be held Sept. 7 at Northumberland Regional High School, with check in at 1 p.m. The walk will begin at 2 p.m. To register online visit www.superwalk.ca.
About Parkinson's
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. Due to these numbers, Parkinson’s is one of the fastest growing neurological conditions in the world. It is also one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases. This means that 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.
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.