December Newsletter - Reflections

2023 has been a busy year for us at Parkinson Canada. We've been hard at work making sure the needs of people living with Parkinson's are being met, and their voices are heard. Let's reflect on some of the events. launches and highlights from 2023 that we've accomplished together.

Programs and services:

CareFinder
In 2023 Parkinson Canada officially launched CareFinder an innovative, user-friendly online directory designed to connect you with Parkinson's-informed services based on your location. Simply enter what you are searching for, add your postal code, and access a community of support, from movement disorder specialists to essential wellness programs. This powerful resource directs you toward tailored services, programs, and support in your community. [link removed]

Parkinson's IQ + You
Parkinson Canada teamed up with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to host Parkinson's IQ + You in Dartmouth, NS on Oct. 28, 2023. This free in-person event was the first of its kind in Canada. It was an empowering experience for people living with Parkinson's and their care partners in Atlantic Canada to learn tips on managing the disease, hear about the latest research, and connect with local resources.

Research:

2nd Annual Movement Disorders Meeting
On Nov. 24-25, Parkinson Canada hosted a two-day event featuring over 150 experts from across the country, coming together for the second time ever in Canada. It involved networking, presentations on the latest scientific research and discussions on ways to better equip healthcare systems to diagnose and treat movement disorders. This event forged new connections and collaborations in our shared mission to better understand and treat Parkinson's disease. Read more about the conference here. [link removed]

World Parkinson Congress
Back in July, Parkinson Canada travelled to Barcelona, Spain to attend the World Parkinson Congress. We learned a lot at the event about groundbreaking developments and research currently underway around the world. If you missed it, check out our blog where we break down some of the highlights from each day of the conference. [link removed]

Advocacy:

Hill Day
In October, Parkinson Canada travelled to Parliament Hill. Our goal was to raise awareness of Parkinson's with elected officials and ensure that the voices of people living with Parkinson's and their care partners are being heard by the federal government. We're happy to report that the day was a resounding success as we were able to raise many of our concerns with parliamentarians. Read more about Hill Day here. [link removed]

Your voice matters!
Earlier this year the federal government passed legislation laying the groundwork for a Canada Disability Benefit, and we need your input. We're advocating to ensure that the benefit will meet the needs of people with Parkinson's and we'd like you to provide your feedback using the government's online engagement tool. The more people from our community that respond, the more likely that the program will meet our needs, so be sure to provide your input by Dec. 21, 2023. Check out the tool here. [link removed]

Events:

33rd annual Superwalk
Parkinson Canada's annual Superwalk is one of our biggest events. It raises money that is critical for funding innovative new research, as well as key programs and services to help people living with Parkinson's thrive. It's an amazing opportunity for people living with Parkinson's and their supporters to get out, make connections and have their voices heard! This year we hosted the 33rd annual Superwalk, bringing together people from across Canada. Read more about Superwalk here. [link removed]

Webinars & Announcements:

Send your loved ones a special holiday message!
Celebrate the holidays with Parkinson Canada! We offer e-cards, allowing you to celebrate holidays, birthdays and other special occasions while also helping the 100,000 Canadians living with Parkinson's to thrive. Check out the full selection of cards you can send to your loved ones here. [link removed]

Ask Us! Your Parkinson's Questions Answered
Whether you are newly diagnosed, have been living with Parkinson's for years or care for a loved one with Parkinson's, you've probably got questions about motor and non-motor symptoms, treatments and resources that are available both virtually or in local communities, etc. Parkinson Canada's Information and Referral team members provide free and confidential non-medical information and referral services. When you have questions or need assistance, we can help connect you with resources and community programs and services that can help you. Register for the webinar now! [link removed]

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Parkinson Canada
4211 Yonge Street, Suite 316
Toronto, ON M2P 2A9
(p) 416-227-9700 or 1-800-565-3000
(f) 416-227-9600
[email protected]