Parkinson's 'SuperWalk' raises more than $30K

The 35th annual Parkinson Canada 'SuperWalk' in Barrie on Saturday raised more than $30,000 to support Parkinson's Disease research.

More than a hundred participants marched in a two-kilometre loop around Sunnidale Park, raising donations through sponsorship.

"It's about raising awareness of the disease for one thing, and it's also about funding research and helping people who are experiencing Parkinson's disease to live a good life with help and support," said Kathy Rupnow, volunteer coordinator for the 'SuperWalk.'

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Parkinson's is a nervous system disorder characterized by a wide range of symptoms that can impact one's quality of life, including slowness of movement, tremors, and postural instability.

Rupnow's son Nathan was diagnosed with Parkinson's at 38 years old.

"It's not just an older person's disease, and I don't think a lot of people are aware of that," added Rupnow. "It's a very progressive disease that doesn't have a cure, so what we really want is a cure."

Langille has been a 'SuperWalk' participant each year for the past decade. "I think that's why we do the 'SuperWalk'; so we all get together and figure out how we better ourselves as people with Parkinson's," he said.

Alexis Keller, the 'SuperWalk' emcee, volunteers for the walk in honour of her late father.

"My dad passed away from Parkinson's disease about six years ago," she said. "So it's really important to me to raise awareness and bring support to our community and those still living with Parkinson's."

According to Parkinson Canada, more than 100,000 people are suffering from the disease across the country. To date, the 'SuperWalk' has raised more than $ 44 million in support of research, support tools, and advocacy.

Donations are being accepted for the 'SuperWalk' are being accepted through the end of the year.