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z | Page 5 Volume 14 Number 35 | 50¢
September 3, 2015
downtownkamloops.com
Superwalk with a super guy It is estimated that more than 100,000 Canadians have Parkinson’s disease, although this number may be higher as there is no national study yet. It affects both men and women across all ethnicities, with the majority of those diagnosed over the age of 65. Parkinson’s disease is not a normal part of aging, however the incidence increases with age and due to the aging baby boom population, this number is expected to rise dramatically. Only 20 per cent of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease are under the age of 40, which is commonly known as early onset. It is a chronic degenerative brain disorder that causes cells in the brain that normally produce a chemical called dopamine to die off, causing such symptoms as tremors, muscle stiffness, problems with balance, fatigue, difficulties with speech and writing, depression and changes in thinking ability. Currently there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. Steven Puhallo is the executive director of the Kamloops North Shore Business Improvement Association (NSBIA). He is a familiar face and hometown success story whose family roots go back generations. He returned to Kamloops in 2011 with his wife Jennifer and young daughters, Josephine and Sofija because in his mind, there was no better place to raise a family than Kamloops. In December 2013, Steven was diagnosed with Early Onset Parkinson’s disease, a condition where only 20 per cent of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease are under the age of 40. After struggling with mysterious ailments and fatigue, it was a relief to finally have a diagnosis and place to begin learning how to manage his symptoms. Steven is coping well and leads an active lifestyle keeping up with his growing family. He still writes and believes that early diagno-
sis is a blessing of sorts, as he is more adaptable to the changes that may come as the disease progresses. “Life can go on,” affirms Steven, “I don’t plan on taking a back seat to life now or anytime soon.” He is one of many Kamloops residents who has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and with his background in government and corporate experience, as well as his role locally as director for the NSBIA, Steven Puhallo decided to share his story publically in order to help educate and raise awareness. There are new advances in early detection and researchers are finding innovative techniques to help slow down the degenerative process but until there is a cure, those living with Parkinson’s know their condition can worsen dramatically over the years and rely on organizations like the Parkinson’s Society Canada (PSC) to help them cope. Steven will be taking part in the 25th Anniversary Parkinson’s Superwalk on Saturday, September 12, starting at 10:00 am at the Riverside Park Rotary Bandshell. This event is the largest national fundraiser for the PSC with approximately 14,000 participants annually. The funds raised go toward research, education, support, awareness to reduce stigma and promote early detection. The PSC is commitSteven Puhallo is one of the familiar faces taking part in this year’s Parkinson Superwalk to help raise funds and awareness for Parkinson’s disease.
Both patios now open Finest Dining Experience Downtown Kamloops
New! Lunch Special: Chicken & Prawn Combo $1495 includes rice, greek salad, pita & tzatziki
430 Victoria Street | 250-377-8786 | doriangreekhouse.com | Open 7 days a week • lunch mon to sat