In 2020, a group of Sunshine Coast locals completed 42 laps of Mt Coolum over five days, accumulating the height of Mt Everest, and raising awareness and much needed funds for Australian research for Parkinson’s Disease.
Organiser Gary McKitterick Gillett from Trek Ready Himalayas said they are now planning to go to Mt Everest Base Camp in April 2023, and this time they would be joined by someone with Parkinson’s Disease.
Sunshine Coast local Sandra Gerswitch has Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD), which means she was diagnosed at just 45 years of age.
Sandra is an inspiration to all and especially newly diagnosed Australians.
She is setting an example for all to lead a healthy and active lifestyle and explore the world, by challenging herself to trek to Mt Everest Base Camp.
Sandra said, “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to challenge myself and to be in a team, inspire others living with YOPD, and raise awareness of Parkinson’s Disease in the community.“
Gary said Parkinson’s Disease (PD) was not just an old person’s disease.
“20 per cent of all sufferers are diagnosed under 50 years of age. Michael J Fox was diagnosed at just 29 years of age,“ he said.
“Trek for Parkinson’s is all about helping to find a cure for PD by supporting Shake It Up Australia, who fund Australian research to help find a cure.
“We are getting closer, but need more help. 100 per cent of all donations and funds raised go to Shake It Up Australia.“
“We look forward to partnering with business to help bring an end to Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease.“
To make a donation visit our-fundraisers.raisely.com/virtual-everest-trek-2022
Purchase a $10 raffle ticket to go into the draw to win a Thermomix at trekforparkinsonsaustraliathermomixraffle.floktu.com/
All profit goes to Shake It Up Foundation Australia Research for Parkinson’s Disease.
For more information on Shake It Up Australia visit shakeitup.org.au
