We had so many amazing fundraising heroes for 2020 that we had to split it into two hero posts!
2020 was an extremely difficult year and with most of us in isolation or practising social distancing, it was also a challenging year for fundraising. Shake It Up made it through 2020 with the support of our fundraisers, generous donors and corporate sponsors who are committed to finding treatments that slow, stop and prevent progression, ultimately leading to a cure for Parkinson’s.
As we navigate 2021 together, Shake It Up would like to thank our supporters who have been so integral to our success in 2020. Let’s have a look back on some of our fundraising heroes for 2020.
Amaysim Team Challenge themselves for Parkinson’s
A big team of legends at Amaysim, led by Jimi, challenged themselves to run 30 mins per day for 30 days and raise money for Shake It Up. The team had over 30 members all eager to help. Over their 30 day challenge, they completed over 4,168km (that’s the distance between Sydney and Perth!!) and over 36,000 active minutes. The team found the challenge rewarding and invigorating, and we’ve been inspired by their commitment to the cause.
Maddy and Judy’s September Shuffle
Inspired by Judy’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, Maddy and Judy started a challenge to walk 10,000 steps per day and drink no alcohol for the month of September. Their friends, family and community have come out in force to support the duo with their challenge and donating generously with one goal in mind – a cure for Parkinson’s. Maddy said they chose to fundraise for Shake It Up because “I love what the organisation stands for. It brings such positive awareness to Parkinson’s Disease and liberates people who have the disease, and their families – with content that is insightful and forward-thinking. I’ve found there is such a hopeless perception of people affected by Parkinson’s Disease and I think Shake It Up is a great platform to educate Australia on what the disease is and what we can do to help it.”
Dom runs 100km for Parkinson’s
Last year, Dom challenged himself to run 100km in a single effort. This enormous challenge was inspired by Dom’s uncle Gaz and the challenges Parkinson’s brings to his life. Dom said “We have watched Gaz totally lose his independence. When he couldn’t balance on a pushbike properly on a family holiday in Vietnam we all had a bit of a laugh, including Gaz. Fast forward eight years and he is wheelchair bound, requires assistance in all aspects of his life, is unable to verbally communicate or hold a facial expression, requires full time care in a modified house and even the thought of going outside is an enormous challenge.”
Everest on Mt Coolum Challenge
Originally planned as a trip to Nepal to climb Everest Base Camp, the team put their plans aside due to Coronavirus and instead sought a new challenge – to climb the same distance in their own locations and on Mt Coolum. That meant climbing Mt Coolum 8 times a day for 5 days! Together they raised $10,755 for Parkinson’s and a lot of awareness as they were featured on lots of local media like ABC Sunshine Coast Radio, Channel 7 and local newspapers and magazines.
Honouring Dickybird
Bianca, her Mum and family took to the Whitten Oval in late 2020 to honour Dad and husband, Dickybird. Together they walked 71 laps of the oval – one lap for every year of his life – and raised $1,817 towards a cure for Parkinson’s. This remarkable effort took 7.5 hours and was spurred on by friends and family inspired by one of Dickybird’s favourite phrases ‘knock ’em dead!‘
Suzanne runs for Rog
Suzanne took on an almighty challenge in the second half of 2020. She ran 130km in 14 days – the same distance and time it took her father to complete Everest Base Camp. Suzanne was honouring her father, who had Parkinson’s, and challenging herself to get the message out there about Parkinson’s. Suzanne said “I watched my Dad deteriorate over 7 years to Parkinsons Disease. My Dad was fit, healthy and strong before Parkinsons took over his life. He was a fitness fanatic who ended up being wheelchair bound. He was the kindest man who ended up losing all of his language. I’m committed to find a cure in honour of my Dad and his fight with this cruel disease but also for all the victims and carers who are still fighting this battle everyday.” We’re with you, Suzanne!
2020 Fundraisers Part Two
As we navigate 2021 together, Shake It Up would like to thank our supporters who have been so integral to our success in 2020.
Help us take on 2021 together, spread awareness about Parkinson’s disease with your community and get involved with fundraising for research towards a cure for Parkinson’s disease. Find out more today about how you can help by contacting our Community Fundraising and Events Manager, Isobel or see more information on ways to get involved on our website.
