Parkinson SuperWalk and the myths of Parkinson’s Disease

by Brandon Mayer

Think you know all there is to know about Parkinson’s Disease? Well it turns out you may know far less than you think. Parkinson’s Disease is the fastest growing neurological disorder in the world, and Canada is one of the countries where it is growing the fastest. Portland resident Pat Evans was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease 16 years ago, and now, part of her mission in life is to educate others on the largely unknown signs of the disease, as well as the importance of early diagnosis.

“Rural areas and people who use well water are more likely to get Parkinson’s,” Pat revealed in a conversation with the Times which took place in Kemptville. “That means that this area should have a very high number of people with it.” Pat knows all too well that there are a myriad of supports and treatments available for people with Parkinson’s, but that early diagnosis plays a crucial factor. Many people simply don’t want to get diagnosed early because they believe Parkinson’s is an old person’s disease. However, it is possible to be diagnosed as young as 20-years-old.

When Pat moved to this area, she found that there seemed to be a lack of supports available for people with Parkinson’s. She got to work, forming both a boxing group and a support group in Smiths Falls, and organizing the local chapter of the Parkinson SuperWalk. For over 30 years, the SuperWalk has raised money for Parkinson’s Disease supports and research, and has helped show those with the disease that they are not alone. Pat explained that the event isn’t just about money, it is also about raising awareness.

Over the years, the local chapter of the SuperWalk has raised over $300,000, an astounding number even when compared to larger urban centres year after year. “To me that says there must be Parkinson’s [locally], because why would we get that kind of support?” said Pat. She explained that there is a stigma attached to the disease which can often lead to people keeping their diagnosis a secret from all except those closest to them. One important thing Pat wants to raise awareness of is the multitude of unknown symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease. Examples of lesserknown Parkinson’s Disease symptoms include loss of smell, loss of control of facial muscles leading to an “angry” expression, dry eyes, double vision, and comorbid mental health issues. About 40% of people with Parkinson’s Disease also experience anxiety, depression, or apathy. Having such mental health issues can be detrimental to a person’s desire to exercise, which is signifi cant because of the importance of exercise in treating Parkinson’s Disease. “People only know about tremor,” said Pat. “But