Dear Editor:

One of our major events in Invermere, Parkinson SuperWalk, is at risk. Unfortunately, our very committed, long-time organizer is unable to take on the duties this year. Grace Sander has been an absolute superstar and really helped make the event become what it is today. There are 2,270 people living with Parkinsons in B.C.s interior region and Parkinson SuperWalk in Invermere has raised over $20,000 to help provide services and programs to this community since 2011.

Parkinson SuperWalk is the largest national fundraising event for Parkinson Society Canada (PSC) and its regional partners. Approximately 14,000 people from coast-to-coast organize and take part in Parkinson SuperWalk. This year marks the 25th anniversary of this nationwide event. In British Columbia, over 20 walks will be taking place in September including the Walk in Invermere on Saturday, September 12th, 2015 at Pothole Park. With participation from supporters, since 1990, we have raised more than $31 million for support services, research, advocacy and education. Our services include voice and swallow seminars, short-term counselling, a wide-variety of educational and informational materials and training for physiotherapists and fitness professionals on Parkinsons specific therapies.

Parkinsons disease is the second most common neurological disease after Alzheimers. B.C.s Ministry of Health data indicates the number of Parkinsons patients in B.C. has increased by 39 per cent in the last decade from around 8,600 in 2001-02 to 12,500 in 2011-12. This number is expected to roughly double by 2031. Thats why its more important than ever to help make a real difference. Parkinson Society British Columbia is committed to being the voice of British Columbians living with Parkinsons.

Our purpose is to ease the burden and find a cure.

Please help us find a volunteer to take over Graces duties for Parkinson SuperWalk, so that we may continue the event and Graces legacy in the local Parkinsons community.

Kind regards,

Alicia Wrobel

Parkinson Society British Columbia

Vancouver