Focus for Parkinson Awareness Month put on pushing forward

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on March 26, 2025.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

April is Parkinson Awareness Month, and in recognition of the occasion, the Parkinson Association of Alberta announced this year’s campaign.

“In Canada, more than 110,000 individuals live with Parkinson disease and Atypical Parkinsonism, and every day, 18 more people are diagnosed, which means that in April alone more than 550 individuals in this country will learn they have the disease,” a release reads.

As a chronic, progressive disease with no treatment, therapy, or drug to slow or halt its progression, it’s important for residents to know that with the proper medical care, support system, education and services, many people with PD can live a full and active life, – part of the focus of this year’s awareness work.

This year’s theme is “PUSH for Parkinson’s,” celebrating those giving themselves the push they need to move forward with purpose, regardless of their goal.

Here in the Hat, the PAA website states, there will be a “Spark the Night Up” in Towne Square on April 10 or 11, lighting up the structure blue in recognition of the disease and those who are experiencing it.

“Throughout the month of April, we are celebrating our Parkinson’s community, their strength, resilience, passion and perseverance. We will have educational opportunities focusing on Alberta based Parkinson’s research,” said PAA. “We invite you to celebrate with us and help share our stories.”

More information on various donation opportunities, as well as resources for those looking for information on the disease, visit parkinsonassociation.ca.

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