2020 was the first year for Paws 4 Parkinson’s. Inspired by the challenging times we have found ourselves in and the desire to connect our community, Paws 4 Parkinson’s was created. Pets play a huge role in maintaining positive mental health, especially as we are currently spending more time at home and distancing ourselves socially. Dogs, in particular, also keep us active and healthy through walks and playtime.
Through the month of April, we collected your furry, four-legged, flying and fishy stories about our pets and what they mean to us to keep our spirits high. We’ve put together some of our favourites from this month for this special hero feature.
Dave and Daisy
“My Daisy Dog. We’ve been kicking around together for over 12 years now; she goes everywhere with me… love her to bits.”
Kitty and Dixie
Kitty, an emergency nurse on the Gold Coast, has shared her pug Dixie for #paws4parkinsons “Dixie is my best friend and the best stress relief through such difficult times.”
Abby’s Dad and Missy
Missy and Dad have been inseparable ever since he had to retire due to PD, spending all day together. They go for daily walks together, which is great for dad’s coordination, balance and pain management, and she is always by his side looking out for him.
Jasmine and the Japanese Deer
Jasmine, a researcher on the forefront of Parkinson’s research at the University of Sydney, supported #paws4parkinsons by sharing her dream pet – the deer she met at the World Parkinson’s Conference in Japan. “This deer was almost as inspiring as the participants of the conference! It was steady and fearless in the face of chaos and traffic”
Now that Pause 4 Parkinson’s and Paws 4 Parkinson’s has wrapped up for 2020, we are looking to the next opportunity to connect our community. That’s why we’re launching the Shake It Up Virtual Challenge!
We all know how important regular exercise and social connections are for people living with Parkinson’s. So, in these uncertain times, we challenge you to Get Physical, Get Mindful and Get Social with us to stay fit and positive.
We’ve made it easy for anyone to participate, no matter your level of fitness, age or ability!
Choose your preferred activity (physical, mindful or social), then create your own challenge. Set a fundraising goal and share your challenge with your network to inspire others. It’s that easy!
