Our hero this week is Ryan who is running a half marathon or marathon every month dressed as Forrest Gump to raise funds for Shake It Up. Ryan originally planned to complete running events which have now been cancelled or rescheduled, so instead he’s got moving around a local park, pounding the pavement and taking his fundraising online.
Ryan’s efforts have also been featured in the Geelong Advertiser and on 3AW Radio Melbourne! There are lots of way to raise funds virtually – and personal challenges like Ryan’s are a great way to get started.
To get you motivated, we’ve launched the Shake It Up Virtual Challenge! We are challenging you to Get Physical, Get Mindful or Get Social to raise funds for Shake It Up and advance Parkinson’s research.

Photo credit: Peter Ristevski
What inspires your commitment to finding a cure for Parkinson’s Disease?
My Aunty Denise suffers from Parkinson’s Disease.
She has been there for me my entire life, I consider her to be a second mum to me.
Seeing her with Parkinson’s and how much it has affected her and changed her life has been very hard.
What are you doing to fundraise for Shake It Up?
I’m running a half marathon or marathon every month dressed as Forrest Gump. Growing my hair and beard for the entire year also.
The aim is to spread awareness for the disease I’ve also set up a go fund me page for people to donate to the Shake It Up Foundation.
What advice do you have for others looking to get fundraising?
Go for it!
No idea is too small.
You will find that the community is more than happy to help out.