Maureen Olson (Keith Lacey photo)
A new initiative has been launched across B.C. to get those who suffer from Parkinson’s disease engaged in regular physical activity and exercise.
The Parkinson’s Movement is being launched during the month of April, which is Parkinson’s Awareness Month in B.C. and across Canada.
“Everyone with Parkinson’s knows how crucial exercise is … so we’re encouraging everyone with the disease and those who support them to be active and get moving,” said Maureen Olson, a longtime member of the Parkinson Society of British Columbia and Osoyoos woman who has organized a special fundraising event for Monday, April 7 at Heritage House in Oliver to celebrate the Parkinson’s Movement initiative.
Olson is challenging those afflicted with Parkinson’s and their loved ones to commit to doing their favourite form of exercise for the entire month of April and beyond.
Everyone affected by Parkinson’s deserves to have the latest tools needed to lead the healthiest lifestyle possible, for as long as possible, she said.
At Parkinson Society B.C., the goal is to provide exercise programs specifically designed for people living with the disease, she said.
“I’m excited about the Parkinson’s Movement program,” she said. “Healthy exercise and movement plays a key role in assisting those who have this disease.”
Those attending the event at Heritage House next Monday, between 1-3 p.m., will be introduced to the services being offered by the local support group.
That will be followed by a short exercise class, she said.
Olson is hoping that friends and family of the local Parkinson’s support group members will take up the challenge to ask for pledges from family, friends, co-workers and neighbours to raise money for the organization.
“We try to raise money for services that we provide, which includes counselling and educational material and holding the occasional seminar with professional people who are experts in the field,” she said.
While the support group in Osoyoos and Oliver has about 10 members, Olson is convinced there are others in the region who are suffering from Parkinson’s, but might be timid or shy about seeking assistance or joining the group.
“I would really like to let them know the value of joining our support group,” she said.
To join the Parkinson’s Movement, you can register online at www.parkinson.bc.ca and create your own personal profile detailing your experience with Parkinson’s and your exercise commitment (such as walking 10 minutes a day or biking 20 km per week during April).
“Then just get moving,” said Olson.
Anyone planning to attend Heritage House for the awareness day on Monday is asked to contact Olson at 250-495-7978.
KEITH LACEY
Osoyoos Times
