In 2024, for Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Shake It Up Australia is encouraging the Australian community to take part in #Pancakes4Parkinsons to raise funds for innovative research. Bring together your loved ones, organise a breakfast for your coworkers, unleash your creativity in a pancake decorating contest, or attempt to create a record-breaking stack – the choice is yours!

Our long-standing advocate and supporter Emma held her own Pancakes for Parkinson’s fundraiser, inviting family and friends for pancakes and prosecco around the pool, all while wearing pink. (She really nailed the ‘P’ for Parkinson’s theme!)

We spoke to Emma all about her wonderful event, and why she is so passionate about raising funds for research.

Hi Emma, tell us all about your #PancakesForParkinsons fundraiser! What was involved and what did you do on the day?

My very generous friends, yoga buddies and family were my guests – there was about 20 of us. I encouraged all guests to wear pink, which they did beautifully! It was also an excuse to get out my newly thrifted over the top pink frock! I live in a block of units and have a lovely pool area – luckily for us, it was a glorious day so didn’t have to revert to Plan B! My delightful cook bought her gas oven and made the pancakes by the pool. My local cafe kindly donated coffee and tea for my guests to enjoy.

What were some of the highlights of the event for you?

The highlight for me was seeing all my friends and family together and being able to thank them for supporting me in my Parkinson’s journey. I’ve had my dark times with PD (and still do) and I couldn’t have done it without them. So it was a thank you, but I also hit them up for some much-needed funds for Parkinson’s research.

Why did you choose to raise funds for Shake It Up?

Choosing to raise funds for Shake It Up Foundation is an absolute no brainer. (pun intended!) We need many more research dollars in the Parkinson’s space. We have to keep those hard-working researchers doing what they do best, and with Parkinson’s being the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, we need answers sooner rather than later.

What advice would you give others thinking about hosting a fundraising event for Parkinson’s Awareness Month this year?

Try and recruit help as much as possible. Give everyone a little job to make your life easier so you can mingle with guests. Ask people you know for donations of raffle prizes, and local businesses for their support. You would be surprised how many people are willing to help when asked. I also printed off my QR donation code on A4 sized pieces of paper and stuck it everywhere to make it super easy for people to donate. I even stuck one in the lift of my building and I received a $100 donation from one of my fellow residents! How fantastic is that?!

Lastly, what’s your favourite pancake topping!?

Definitely passionfruit curd!

You can support Emma’s fundraiser here.

Make a difference this April for Parkinson’s Awareness Month by participating in fundraising and hosting a #Pancakes4Parkinsons event!