Party for Parkinson’s: Jacqui’s Fabulous Night of Fun to Honour her Mum

Tuesday, 5th May 2026

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Fundraising in support of research is a powerful way to honour a loved one who lived with Parkinson’s, and to make a meaningful difference in the quest for a cure.

For Jacqui, it was also a chance to do something that would help other families like hers, while celebrating the memory of her beloved Mum, and the legacy she left her children and grandchildren.

Jacqui describes her Mum, Christina, as always loving, kind, sweet, thoughtful and creative. In 2012, Christina was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, before developing Lewy Body Dementia, and sadly, passed away at 78 years of age in 2023.

“Mum was a highly intelligent woman. She went on to be an English and Art teacher and enjoyed helping children learn”, Jacqui told us.

“Mum married Dad when she was 20, and they had 4 kids and 8 grandkids. She taught us family was everything and she loved being a Wife, Mum, Grandma, Sister, Aunty, Cousin & Friend.”

In memory of Christina, and inspired by her love of family, Jacqui is hosting a ‘Party for Parkinson’s’, gathering friends, family and the Parkinson’s community to raise funds for research. We spoke with Jacqui to learn more about her event and what inspired her to create change for the future.

Tell us all about your Party for Parkinson’s!

On Saturday 13th June we are having a Party for Parkinson’s night at the Showroom at Dee Why RSL in Sydney. We have booked an 80s band to dance the night away and have a great time whilst raising money for Shake It Up Australia. We will also hold an auction in between the band’s sets, so lots of great prizes are up for grabs. The event is open to the public and everyone is welcome. Anyone who wants to attend can purchase a ticket here.

What inspired you to support Parkinson’s research through this event?

Watching Mum live with Parkinson’s was very confronting, so we decided to hold a fundraiser in the hope that we can find a cure for Parkinson’s and prevent other families from enduring the heart break of losing precious loved ones to this awful disease.

Shake It Up’s mission to slow, stop and cure Parkinson’s disease means everything to me. My one wish is to find a cure so there is no more suffering.

Events like yours are vital to raise community awareness. What is something you wish people understood more about PD?

Those with Parkinson’s disease often become quiet and lose their facial expressions.

Please know that someone with Parkinson’s can still hear you, even though they may not converse a lot.

It’s important to know whilst the facial expressions disappear, your loved one is still there.

What is your advice for others wanting to make a difference?

There are many ways to raise money, whether it’s organising a morning tea, doing a swim or run, painting or holding a party.

If we all try to raise money, we are all one step closer to finding a cure, which is the ultimate goal.

Jacqui invites you to join friends old and new, dust off your dancing shoes, and come ready to celebrate life, laughter and friendship. You can get your tickets here.