Hundreds came together in Geelong to support people living with Parkinson’s disease and their families on Sunday.
More than 230 people participated in A Walk in the Park Geelong event at Eastern Park on May 4 to raise awareness and funds for the Parkinson’s community.
Fight Parkinson’s acting chief executive Charlotte Hutchins said Parkinson’s disease didn’t “just affect the person diagnosed” but touched entire families.
“When we walk together, we stand stronger. This annual walk in Geelong is a show of solidarity, compassion and shared purpose,” she said.
“The funds and awareness raised will go a long way in helping us deliver the programs people need now, not later… That is why, events such as Geelong’s Walk in the Park matters.”
Geelong resident Sean Atkinson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease two years ago and attended the event with his wife and children.
He said the turnout for the event was “overwhelming in the best possible way” and reminded people that no one walked alone.
“To see so many people rallying around our community, some living with Parkinson’s or others walking for someone they love, it makes you feel seen, supported and hopeful,” he said.
Funds raised through the walk will go towards supporting initiatives like the upcoming Parkinson’s Net pilot to improve the way healthcare professionals deliver care for people living with Parkinson’s.
