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During Parkinson’s Awareness Month in April, many of our Shake It Up Supporters choose their own challenge or join an event to raise funds and awareness in support of a loved one. In 2026, Amy is tackling the Backyard Ultra, a demanding endurance event. For Amy, this is a chance to share her family’s story, show support of her Dad, who has been living with Parkinson’s for five years, and make a tangible difference for all those in the Parkinson’s community.
Hi Amy! Can you tell us a bit about the Backyard Ultra?
The Backyard Ultra is a mentally and physically demanding endurance race. Runners complete 6.7km every hour, on the hour, until only one person is left. There’s no defined finish line — it keeps going for as long as you can keep going. This will be my first time running in this event.
While raising awareness through this run, what do you wish people understood more about Parkinson’s?
I wish people understood that Parkinson’s is so much more than just shaking.
It affects movement — balance, walking, coordination, speech and the mind. It’s not just a physical condition
What inspired you to raise funds for Shake It Up Australia?
My dad has been living with Parkinson’s for five years, and seeing him push through each day with resilience has taught me so much about strength.
I chose to support Shake It Up Australia because their mission is clear – they focus on funding world-class research here in Australia with one goal: to slow, stop and ultimately cure the disease.
What does this mission mean to your family?
It would mean so much to us.
It would mean, more good days, more comfort, more memories, and more of my dad feeling like himself.
This run is for you Dad.
