Join Vaughan resident in Parkinson SuperWalk, become everyday hero

yorkregion.com
Aug. 9, 2017
By John Pagado

Communities across Canada are rallying in support of people living with Parkinson’s and in search of a cure including family, friends, health care professionals, dedicated volunteers and researchers. Residents of Vaughan will join the more than 10,000 everyday heroes from across the country to participate in the 27th annual Parkinson SuperWalk taking place Sept. 10 at Vaughan City Hall.

“Events like Parkinson SuperWalk enable us to deliver much needed services within the community and fund research into improved treatments and a cure,” Amanda Stanton, Manager of Events and Partnerships said. “And this event is very inspiring to those living with Parkinson’s and their families when they see their friends and neighbours taking part in this special event or supporting walkers with donations.”

This year Paul Ciaravella, 65, will take part in Parkinson SuperWalk for the fifth time. “I participate in Parkinson SuperWalk to light a spark in my community and across the country” he said.

Ciaravella has been living with Parkinson’s since 2006. In addition to raising awareness through SuperWalk, he has helped others by writing educational books. His third book will be released at the end of August.

In his first book Shaken but in Control, Ciaravella writes about his personal story, and provides nutritional advice for people living with Parkinson’s.

Proceeds from Parkinson SuperWalk fund local programs and services across Canada so that people have access to support in the community in which they live. The SuperWalk also funds research across Canada, which brings hope for the future, and ultimately a world without Parkinson’s.

The disease affects over 100,000 Canadians, a number that is expected to increase in the coming years as 25 Canadians are diagnosed each day. It is a disease of the brain that touches almost every aspect of daily living, including movement, mood, speech, ability to smell, eating and drinking, sleep and cognitive abilities. It gets worse over time, robbing a person of their independence through increasing disability. Ciaravella was very athletic but couldn't continue participating after his diagnosis. This motivated him to support others through SuperWalk, so that one day nobody will have to experience what he experienced.

Register at www.ParkinsonSuperWalk.ca.