Canberran JEFF SMART was diagnosed with Parkinson’s when he was 51, but says looking back, he was experiencing symptoms years before.

JEFF Smart says many people think Parkinson’s is an older person’s disease, but one in five people with it are of working age.

“Parkinson’s is not a death sentence. The fact that I have it doesn’t mean I can’t do things. I still work part time and am an active member of our community,” he says.

On Sunday, October 23, Canberrans are being encouraged to “Walk To Fight Parkinson’s”, to rally and raise money for people living with Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders.

In the ACT more than 2000 people live with Parkinson’s, a neurodegenerative condition with complex motor and non-motor symptoms including rigidity, tremor, pain and gastrointestinal issues, as well as memory, depression, thinking and sleep problems. 

Jeff hopes the walk will help to debunk the stigma associated with people living with Parkinson’s, which many people do not realise can affect younger people as well.

“I hope the walk raises awareness of the symptoms of Parkinson’s and the support that’s available to people to manage their disease,” he said. 

Jeff finds that prioritising exercise is an important part of minimising the impact of living with Parkinson’s. He particularly enjoys a specialised type of “Nordic Walking” several times a week. 

All proceeds raised in The Hospital Research Foundation Group’s “Walk To Fight Parkinson’s” charity event will go towards vital support services and research for people living with Parkinson’s and their families in the Canberra region. 

The day will feature an event village at Rond Terrace, Lake Burley Griffin, which will open from 8am on Sunday, October 23. 

Official proceedings will begin at 9am and the first run/walk will commence at 9.30am. Options include a five-kilometre, bridge-to-bridge fun run and walk, a timed “Nordic Walk” race, or a 1.5 kilometre walk, roll or stroll in Commonwealth Park. 

To get involved and register please visit walktofightparkinsons.com.au