Our hero this week is Hannah who chose to support Shake It Up at her wedding by asking guests to give a donation in lieu of gifts.   For Hannah seeing her brother struggle with Parkinson’s drives her determination to find a cure. Hannah also plans to host an annual fundraiser to raise awareness and further funds for research.

What Drives Your Commitment to find a cure for Parkinson’s?

I want to help my brother, and all those who suffer from this terrible illness, to find some relief at the very least – ideally a cure! But I think it’s also a positive thing for people suffering from PD, who feel like it’s hopeless to see people trying to make a difference in whatever way they can. And it’s a way for family and friends, also feeling helpless, to feel like they are doing something to help their loved one.

Why Shake It Up Australia?

My younger brother came across Shake It Up when he did the City to Surf to raise funds. The fact that 100% of donations go to research is hugely attractive for us and the partnership with the Michael J. Fox Foundation is great.

Tell us what you are doing to Shake Things Up?

Whatever I can! I try to help out whenever I go home to Perth. I talk to people about the disease as often as people will listen in the hopes of raising awareness. Instead of gifts for our wedding, we asked for donations to Shake It Up and I plan to do an annual fundraiser.

Greatest Reward?

Knowing that my brother feels supported and feeling like I’m being proactive in finding a cure for his illness. It’s such a huge thing that I struggle with, watching someone you love deteriorate and being completely helpless.

Best advice for people looking to Shake It Up?

Just do it. I find it difficult to ask people for help and money but people want to help and donate, just give them the opportunity.