Take one step closer to a cure this April
(ARA) In the time it takes you to boil pasta, make a pot of coffee, or write a quick e-mail, one more person has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Every nine minutes someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with this potentially devastating illness.
Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition, impacting movement, which can be debilitating. It affects one million Americans with approximately 60,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The average age of a person diagnosed with the disease is 60, although many are under 50 and some may even be diagnosed as early as 20.
Although the disease generally progresses slowly, over time even the most basic daily routines, like socializing with friends and family members, earning a living and taking care of a home, may be affected. As the disease progresses, activities like brushing one's teeth or buttoning a shirt may gradually require more assistance. In addition, people with Parkinson's disease may also experience loss of facial expression, impaired speech, loss of mobility and difficulty swallowing.
Although there is no known cure for Parkinson's disease, research continues aggressively with the help of grants and fundraisers, such as the Parkinson's Unity Walk.
The Parkinson's Unity Walk was created in 1994 to bring greater awareness and understanding of the disease. The event unites the strength and spirit of the entire Parkinson's disease community.
Every April people living with Parkinson's disease, along with their families and friends gather in New York City's Central Park to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson's disease research. At the first walk there were 200 participants. In 2007, more than 10,000 came to fight to cure Parkinson's disease and to connect with others whose lives are affected by the disease.
"Raising money for research on behalf of the Parkinson's Unity Walk is just one way to bring us one step closer to finding a cure," Marlene Kahan, a Walk participant diagnosed with Parkinson's disease three years ago, said. "The commitment and passion of the Parkinson's community is truly inspirational."
Since its inception, the Walk has made a significant impact, raising more than $7 million for research. With 100 percent of donations given to research, the Walk provides the public with a direct opportunity to help the Parkinson's disease community and change the lives of the millions of people affected.
A single step can change the life of a person with Parkinson's disease. Together, the Unity Walk and Boehringer Ingelheim, the proud partner and premier sponsor for the eighth year, continue to work to achieve greater awareness of Parkinson's disease.
Join the battle and help support the fight. This year the Parkinson's Unity Walk will take place on April 26. To join the Walk or donate, please visit www.yourwebsitehere.com or call (866) PUW-WALK (789-9255).
Courtesy of ARAcontent
|
|
