Well over 100 people took part in the 2024 Parkinson’s Superwalk at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park this afternoon (Saturday), despite some wildfire smoke settling over Prince George.
The annual walk raises money for Parkinson’s BC, which Gina Beddome, the Facilitator for the local Parkinson’s support group, told My PG Now is essential for people diagnosed with the disease.
“They provide so much support for those affected by Parkinson’s,” she said. “They have research money, information, help caregivers, help with medications, and offer counselling services.”
BC Parkinson’s message, and the main message shared at the walk, is “you are not alone.”
Beddome’s husband and many of his family members had Parkinson’s disease, which is what she said drew her to the community and helping raise support.
Right now, their biggest need is for traveling clinics to come to Prince George quarterly.
“Everyone needs a neurologist to help them through the journey of Parkinson’s, and there is only two of those in Prince George,” she explained. “Often we get referred to Vancouver… travel is very difficult. To go down to the heart of Vancouver for these appointments, it takes so much out of people with Parkinson’s.”
Superwalk donations are not just being collected today, Beddome said the organization will be accepting contributions to this cause until December.
“We know how difficult it is these days economically. We know money is precious. If you can’t contribute financially, please come out and contribute emotionally. That support is unmeasurable.”
You can find out more about Parkinson’s BC here.
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