For Damian Rann and his family, the fight against Parkinson’s disease is A Walk in the Park.
On August 31, the Yarraville resident and his relatives will join thousands of Victorians taking part in a Parkinson’s Victoria fund-raiser in support of Damian’s father Kelvin, who was diagnosed with the disease seven years ago.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressively degenerative neurological disorder that affects the control of body movement.
Symptoms develop slowly and gradually progress over years, but are greatly helped by medication.
More than 27,000 Victorians and about 80,000 Australians are living with Parkinson’s, for which there is no cure.
Mr Rann said A Walk in the Park had become a family tradition.
“My brother and his son come down from Queensland, my girlfriend comes along with our dogs and, together, with a few friends, we compete as a team,” he said.
“Parkinson’s isn’t a death sentence, but it does affect a person’s quality of life.
‘‘Exercise and keeping moving is important for people with Parkinson’s, especially those in the early stages of the disease, so Dad’s taken part in the walk for the past four years.
“Dad was in the shoe business for many years, owning stores around the western suburbs, so it’s ironic that it’s now so important for him to keep putting his best foot forward and to keep moving.
“We take so many things for granted and you don’t fully appreciate them until they’re gone, but Dad has always been very positive.”
Now in its sixth year, A Walk in the Park aims to raise awareness and funds for services and research to improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s.
Those who take part can complete a two or four-kilometre walk along the Yarra River, starting from Federation Square at 11am. Entry costs $40 for adults, $35 for concession and $15 for children aged 5-15.
For details or registrations, visit www.parkinsonswalk.com.au
