Even during these challenging times, there are still heaps of ways to get involved and support Parkinson’s Research. Today, we’re featuring Alana who is using her small business platform to sell bracelets and raise funds for Shake It Up. What a great initiative! If you have capacity, there are still lots of great ways you can fundraise for Pause 4 Parkinson’s.

What drives your commitment to finding a cure?

A close family member of mine struggled for years with shakiness and loss of control in movement of their hands, this continued to progress over the years with difficulty walking. Not only was this frustrating for her, it also caused anxiety and depression, as she wasn’t able to do the things, she would normally be able to tackle with ease and didn’t know why it was happening.

Late last year she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, to say the least it has been a whirlwind of emotions, for not only her but the family. I know how much finding a cure would mean to not only me and my family but also all the other 200,000 people in Australia that Parkinson’s affects.

Why Shake it Up?

When I first started looking into foundations to raise funds and support for Parkinson’s research, one thing in particular was extremely important to me. That the funds raised would all go towards research for Parkinson’s. After reading through the research and work Shake It Up have already achieved, it made me feel so confident to choose Shake it up for my fundraiser.

Tell us what you did to shake things up.

To shake things up I’m using my small business platform to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s. I’ve created 2 bracelets for purchase in which all the funds will be donated to Shake it up.

Greatest reward?

Making bracelets is a passion of mine and being able to take that, be proactive and help raise funds to get that little bit closer to finding a cure for Parkinson’s is the biggest reward!

Best advice for those looking to Shake It Up?

If someone you love is affected by Parkinson’s it can be somewhat overwhelming and at times make you feel helpless in being able to help them. Shaking it up has allowed me to help in the best way I can and raise not only funds but awareness.

Tell us about your pet for #paws4parkinsons

His name is Coco and is 15 years old. He absolutely loves his food and sleep! He always wants company and loves a good cuddle and sleep sesh!

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month and our annual Pause 4 Parkinson’s campaign. 

Get involved and help advance research. We’ve got lots of innovating fundraising stories and ideas available.