Over 12,500 British Columbians live with Parkinson's disease. It is the second most common neuro-degenerative disorder, after Alzheimer's.
September 8, 2015 marks the 25th anniversary of the Parkinson SuperWalk.
Annually, thousands of people who have been affected by Parkinson's team up to generate awareness and help raise funds for Parkinson's research, education, and support services.
Last year, 14,000 participants and volunteers worked together to raise $2.9 million across Canada.
Recent research into Parkinson's disease has investigated the benefits of exercise for symptom management.
In June 2015, the National Parkinson Foundation (NPF) released the results of the largest clinical study of Parkinson's, collecting data from over 3,000 participants.
Results show that "everyone with Parkinson's disease should be exercising. It doesn't seem to matter what they do, they benefit from just getting up and moving," said Michael Okun, Medical Director at NPF.
The inclusion of challenging exercises is encouraged as part of one's treatment plan, a notion which CEO of Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC) Jean Blake has prioritized in educating the public.
Get some exercise for a great cause, Chilliwack's walk will begin September 8 at 2 p.m. at Evergreen hall.
The SuperWalk takes places in more than 20 communities across the province, all joined in the quest to find a cure for Parkinson's.
To donate or register for the walk, visit parkinson.bc.ca/superwalk or call 1-800-668-330.