Congratulations to our heroes this week, Maddy and Judy, who have raised over $6k when they only started their challenge 11 days ago! Inspired by Judy’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, Maddy and Judy started a challenge to walk 10,000 steps per day and drink no alcohol for the month of September. Their friends, family and community have come out in force to support the duo with their challenge and donating generously with one goal in mind – a cure for Parkinson’s.

What drives your commitment to a cure for Parkinson’s?

My Mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in August 2019, at age 62. She is affected minimally for now, and we’re unsure of how she will progress in years to come. I think the uncertainty is the hardest part. It would be incredible to find a cure for Parkinson’s, or to even progress research so people who live affected by Parkinson’s can LIVE a great life WITH Parkinson’s.

Why did you choose Shake It Up for your fundraising?

I chose Shake It Up because I love what the organisation stands for. It brings such positive awareness to Parkinson’s Disease and liberates people who have the disease, and their families – with content that is insightful and forward-thinking. I’ve found there is such a hopeless perception of people affected by Parkinson’s Disease and I think Shake It Up is a great platform to educate Australia on what the disease is and what we can do to help it.

What are you doing to fundraise?

Mum and I are doing what we call a ‘September Shuffle’. That’s 10,000 steps (or shuffles on some days, in Mum’s case!) a day through the month of September, coupled with no alcohol. I thought it was a great way to tie in activity, diet and nutrition – three things that you can focus on (outside of taking medication) that help curb the disease day in and day out. On days where Mum isn’t up to the steps (we’ve been pretty good so far!) we will stay at home and do a yoga flow instead, or put on one of our favourite songs and have a boogie in the living room to get us moving.

What advice do you have for others looking to fundraise?

My advice would be to do something pertinent to you. Maybe try and think of something that is a little bit different to catch the attention of your friends, family and colleagues. Calling it ‘September Shuffle with No Sips’ has really got people intrigued by what it means, and it helps explain a symptom and treatments to Parkinson’s Disease in one go. It also does so in a light-hearted, honest, and fun way!