Our Shake It Up hero this week is Michelle who was inspired to get involved in Pause 4 Parkinson’s this April to support her Dad who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 9 years ago. Having seen the emotional and physical toll this has taken on him every day, Michelle wanted to make a difference and help find a cure.
What Drives Your Commitment To Find A Cure For Parkinson’s?
My amazing Dad was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 9 years ago. I have a very close bond with my Dad and have watched him live with the disease on a daily basis. Both emotionally and physically the disease is tough and I would love nothing more than to see a cure and progress within the research of Parkinson’s.
Why Shake It Up?
I chose Shake It Up because of the fantastic work the foundation is and will continue to do. I also like the fact that 100% of every dollar raised goes towards research and that Shake It Up is linked with The Michael J Fox Foundation whom I have a lot of time for, watching over the many years how Michael has never given up on finding a cure and how he holds himself every time we hear him speak he truly is a great role model for the many people world wide living with Parkinson’s Disease.
Tell Us What You Are Doing To Shake It Up?
During the month of April I set upon raising much needed funds for my chosen charity. April being Parkinson’s Month I had a few ideas in my head and decided to go for it. I spoke about my fundraising idea to our car club Muscle, Classic and Performance Car Club of NSW in which it was well received then my fundraising started.
I approached a few different organisations such as Manly Sea Eagles, Parramatta Eels and Bowdens Own, which produce Australian boutique car care products. I was happy that all came on board and supplied me with match game tickets and car care products to use for a raffle. A member from our car club Maroun a one eyed Bulldogs supporter donated a 2017 signed Bulldogs jersey, which was fantastic, and we thank both Maroun and the Bulldogs for their support. A few other items I gathered and purchased myself and then set upon organising a raffle and auction to raise some money. Thanks to Maroun’s generosity we raised $370 for the jersey and $402 for the raffle. Many close friends of Dad, Mum and myself have helped me out with donating and every bit has helped me towards reaching my goal.
Greatest Reward?
This would be seeing a cure for Parkinson’s disease. Taking my Dad every Monday to Punchin Parkos, which is a program, designed for people with Parkinson’s. I help him with the exercises etc. so he can gain more strength and gain better mobility and stability. Watching his face light up when he achieves something he doesn’t think he could do and lastly my greatest reward for myself is having him as my Dad.
Best Advice For People Looking To Shake It Up?
Get behind this great organisation and do what you can to help raise much needed money to find a cure. It doesn’t need to be big, just get out and do something to spread the message and help raise awareness.
