In September 2024, an intrepid team of fundraisers, along with Shake It Up Community Fundraising & Events Manager Isobel, embarked on a challenge to trek the Great Ocean Walk. Guided by the team at Park Trek, the group encountered a few surprises along the way courtesy of the wild weather, and had to make some unexpected changes to their route. But they banded together to approach each day with a sense of adventure and positivity – a true representation of the resilience of the Parkinson’s community. They shared stories, walked through breathtaking landscapes, and raised an incredible $46,000 for Parkinson’s research!
We heard from each person who took part in this year’s trek about their experience, highlights and memories from the journey.
Heather
It was a privilege to share this time with people with a common denominator – Parkinson’s. Laughter and tears were all accepted and understood, and the trek was an amazing journey in itself. For me, the most important part was to re-walk the steps that Richard (my husband), did on his own for the entire 104km trek.
Susan
Going on this Trek was one of my ‘meant to be’ life moments. Everything just fell into place and I ran out of excuses. I put on my big girl pants, grabbed Heather and off we went to follow in my big brother’s footsteps. My fellow trekkers were all welcoming and inspirational. I fully appreciated the time and respect they gave Heather and I as we completed our ‘mission’ for the Trek; to replicate Richard’s finishing photo. Being able to share that moment with Heather made it even more special. It’s one I will never forget and will hold dear for life!
Jenni & Dave
After months of correspondence with Isobel, it was a privilege to share her company on the Great Ocean Walk. Mother Nature and the terrain provided a memorable adventure, which challenged me at my 10 year milestone of living with Parkinson’s. The Great Ocean Walk provided insight into my physical and emotional endurance, and the other participants engaged upon meeting and we bonded immediately. It was a trek of Trust and Respect which sits comfortably alongside the integrity of Shake It Up.
Jane
What an incredible experience. My husband died in January after we had been living with Parkinson’s for more than 30 years. I’m now making a new life for myself. Travel was always high on my wish list, but I wasn’t ready to travel solo and also wasn’t sure about traveling in a group. This trek was the perfect place to start, with 8 other people who have lived experience of Parkinson’s and all walking for the common cause of raising awareness and money for Parkinson’s research. I’m already looking forward to future treks with Shake it Up and Park Trek.
Phil
I enjoyed the wonderful experience of joining in with a group of people in a challenge to extend my abilities and activities. The bonus for me was the opportunity to talk to people I did not previously know, who all have similar interests.
Lyn
A wonderful journey of learning more about Parkinson’s and building a great appreciation of those who live it every day. An amazing group of people!
Nancy
The opportunity to join the Great Ocean Road trek was a wonderful experience. We had excellent support from our guides from Park Trek, who met the challenges with capable alternatives that worked out well for each of us. The participants supported each other and for me I have new friendships from such a short time. My gratitude to all who shared this adventure.
Isobel
I had such a fantastic time trekking with these Shake It Up heroes who are all dedicated to advancing a cure for Parkinson’s. It was so rewarding to hear their stories and share about our common goal in one of the most stunning locations in Australia.
For the month of October only, a generous Shake It Up supporter has agreed to donate an additional $100 for EVERY new monthly donor sign up during October, until we reach our goal of 100 new monthly donors!
Our community of regular donors are vital for Shake It Up to confidently plan ahead and commit to funding new, world-leading Parkinson’s research right here in Australia, in partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation. 100% of all donations go directly to research, so you know you’re making a real difference.
