There is no time to delay. Parkinson’s disease is the fastest growing neurological disease in the world, and Canada ranks among the global leaders in rates of Parkinson’s disease — and it is growing quickly.
With the arrival of Parkinson’s Awareness Month in April and the marking of World Parkinson’s Day on April 11, the time is right to look at both the current situation, and where we are headed.
“Parkinson’s is on the rise globally, with Canada experiencing among the among the highest prevalence rates,” says Karen Lee, PhD, president and CEO, Parkinson Canada. “Approximately 100,000 Canadians have been diagnosed, and that number grows every day. Parkinson Canada is here to support those living with Parkinson’s through funding, critical research, programs and resources, advocacy and building awareness.”
The time is now. More than 100,000 Canadians live with Parkinson’s and approximately 30 Canadians are diagnosed with Parkinson’s every day. Throughout April, Parkinson Canada will share stories individuals affected by Parkinson’s and who have benefitted from the work supported by the organization. The campaign will focus on why Parkinson Canada does what it does — that being the Canadians living with the disease — and how it supports them through four pillars of action:
Providing support programs and resources. Whether online, via webinars or through community support groups, Parkinson Canada takes seriously its role helping people live with and manage their Parkinson’s.
Funding critical research. To date, Parkinson Canada is supporting more than 600 research projects into Parkinson’s, requiring more than $4 million annually to fund this important work.
Advocating alongside people living with Parkinson’s. A nation-wide ambassador network provides a Parkinson’s voice to government and other key stakeholders.
Growing awareness. Through events like Parkinson’s Awareness Month and by speaking up on social media, in traditional media and in local communities, Parkinson Canada is helping more people build a stronger understanding of Parkinson’s.
“Parkinson’s is personal for me, having grown up with a grandfather who had Parkinson’s,” says Lee. “Parkinson Canada is here to support not just those living with Parkinson’s, but everyone who is impacted, such as family members, care partners, neighbours, researchers and health-care professionals.”
Please visit parkinson.ca, call 1-800-565-3000 or email info@parkinson.ca in English or French for more information, to get involved, or to support Canadians affected by Parkinson’s by making a donation.
Join the conversation, find Parkinson Canada on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.