Brandon’s Brad Gordon Prepares for Parkinson SuperWalk Fundraiser

Brad Gordon, a resident of Brandon, Manitoba, is gearing up to participate in the Parkinson Canada SuperWalk this Saturday in Winnipeg. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease approximately three years ago, Gordon first noticed a tremor in his right thumb, which progressed to involuntary movements in his leg.

“I was up on a ladder going, ‘OK, when are you going to stop shaking?’” Gordon recalled. He described the unpredictability of Parkinson’s, noting that significant neurological damage often occurs before symptoms like tremors become apparent. “It is mind-boggling,” he added, emphasizing the importance of awareness surrounding the disease.

With over 4,150 individuals in Manitoba and approximately 110,000 across Canada living with Parkinson’s, Gordon’s story is not uncommon. He aims to maintain his mobility by walking three to five miles each week and is currently preparing for the SuperWalk, which serves as the largest fundraising event for Parkinson Canada, taking place in 40 cities nationwide.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is recognized as the fastest-growing neurological condition globally. It manifests through uncontrollable movements such as shaking and stiffness, resulting from the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. Currently, there is no known cure for Parkinson’s.

“I feel really blessed so far,” Gordon stated, revealing that he expects to begin medication in October. He acknowledged that many in the community perceive Parkinson’s as a death sentence, highlighting the widespread misconceptions about the disease. “That’s why awareness is important,” he stressed, citing the need for better understanding and support for those affected.

Gordon and his wife, Teresa, have raised over $1,000 for the upcoming event and continue to accept donations. He believes that fundraising not only raises awareness but also leads to better services and increased research efforts. “Future Brad would like better drugs and maybe a cure,” he noted, highlighting the potential impacts of ongoing studies.

Since its inception in 1990, the SuperWalk has raised more than $45 million for research, advocacy, and support services, according to Scott McMillan from Parkinson Canada. He pointed out the current challenges faced by individuals seeking diagnosis and treatment.

“We don’t have a lot of disease-modifying therapies right now,” McMillan said, emphasizing the importance of a new strategic plan that aims to centralize information regarding medications and deep brain stimulation surgeries.

Community Support and Awareness

McMillan underscored the critical need for support networks for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s. “It’s a tough diagnosis, and you don’t want to face it alone,” he remarked, noting that such support is essential for those living in rural areas like Brandon.

In Brandon, a support group meets monthly at the Riverbank Discovery Centre, facilitated by Parkinson Canada. Another group, organized by Valerie Poersch, offers a more informal setting for social interaction among those affected by Parkinson’s and their caregivers. Poersch’s husband, Norm, has lived with the condition for 18 years.

“This group is simply like-minded people having a meal in a safe space,” Poersch explained. The group gathers for lunch on the last Friday of each month at Aaltos restaurant, fostering connections and support among members.

As the SuperWalk approaches, Gordon advocates for continued awareness and support for those living with Parkinson’s. For more information on how to donate to this Saturday’s event, individuals can contact Parkinson Canada at 1-888-664-1973.

The Brandon social lunch group is also present on Facebook as the Parkinson’s Social Group, aiming to create a welcoming community for those affected by the disease.