This week we’re throwing it back a couple of years for our hero post, to feature Don, who discovered a novel way to raise funds for Parkinson’s research while putting his health first. After finding out he had Parkinson’s, Don set out to challenge his local Lions Club to lose weight with him and fundraise in the process.
Setting yourself a challenge and getting friends and family to sponsor you is a great way to raise funds for Pause4Parkinson’s. You could go on a health kick like Don, go without alcohol or sugar or challenge yourself to run, walk or cycle for donations.
How will you Pause4Parkinson’s in 2020?
What Drives Your Commitment to find a cure for Parkinson’s?
I did not know how complicated a disease Parkinson’s is until after I was diagnosed and did some research on the internet, I thought it was the shakes and not much more. I then realised how little was known about the complexities of the disease.
Tell us what you are doing/did to Shake Things Up?
I put out a challenge to members of Lions Clubs throughout our District to lose weight and raise funds for a charity of their choice. Only one other Lion took me up on it, and he has since had to withdraw due to health reasons. The deal is, I have to lose a minimum of 20kg – Sounds easy, but I assure that it takes a hell of a lot of discipline. Giving up all alcohol was a reluctant choice, but it has worked!
Best advice for people looking to Shake It Up?
I have been a mover and shaker in my local community for many years, I have never been afraid to give things a good shake when I felt it necessary. So yes, the catchy name Shake it Up really suits my personality. My advice to everyone, listen to your doctor, take your medication, exercise, get fit and keep fit, and when the time comes go down swinging, don’t let the bastard beat you!
Get Involved and help us find better treatments, ways to slop and stop progression and ultimately a cure. Pause 4 Parkinson’s runs throughout April and there are so many ways you can make a difference.
