The annual Walk for Parkinson's is returning to Southwestern Ontario this September.
Money raised at the walk helps support those living with Parkinson's disease.
In 2022, the Walk for Parkinson's raised more than $410,000, all of which stayed in the communities where it was raised.
"It really brings the community together for a common goal to raise funds and raise awareness," said Dylan Murphy, special events coordinator with the Parkinson's Society Southwestern Ontario.
Parkinson's Disease is a slow neurodegenerative disorder. Symptoms include tremors, rigidity, slow movement, postural instability, and difficulty sleeping.
The funds from the walk will help the Parkinson's Society Southwestern Ontario offer programs and services, like support groups, education programs, research funding, and bringing awareness to the disease.
"It provides hope for people living with Parkinson's, hope that maybe one day we can find a cure," Murphy added. "In the meantime, it helps better understand disease and we're encouraging exercise. Exercise is actually shown to slow the progression of certain symptoms of Parkinson's."
The walks take place September 9 and 10 all over Southwestern Ontario:
Saturday, September 9
Goderich - Rotary Cove Pavilion number four
London and District - Springbank Gardens
Owen Sound - Bayshore Community Complex
South Grey Bruce and Hanover - Hanover Town Park
Stratford and Area - Upper Queen's Park
Waterloo Region - Kiwanis Park
Wellington-Dufferin - Centre Wellington Sportsplex
Brantford-Brant County - Knights of Columbus
Sunday, September 10
Chatham-Kent - Kingston Park
Grand Bend - The Grand Bend Legion
Oxford County - South Gate Centre
Port Elgin, Kincardine, and Area - North Shore Park, Saugeen Shores
Sarnia-Lambton - Canatara Park
Windsor-Essex - Malden Park
"There are definitely going to be lots of activities and fun things happening depending on the walk you're going to," Murphy said. "We usually have a warm-up before the walk, which is really fun and gets people up and excited, and we'll have an opening ceremony. After the walk, there will be some food and refreshments."
He said local bands and musicians are typically present for entertainment and there are activities for the kids as well.
"Another component is our information booth," he said. " People can come out and learn more about Parkinson's Society Southwestern Ontario and learn more about the programs and services available in their region."
If you're interested, registration for the walk can be found here. Early Bird Registration is on until June 27. A draw will be done for a $100 gift card of the winner's choice, posted on Walk for Parkinson's social media pages.
