Flying a flag to raise awareness of Parkinson’s Disease

GUELPH – It was a soggy flag raising ceremony outside Guelph City Hall on April 10, but no less heartfelt than other years as Parkinson Canada celebrates Parkinson’s Awareness Month throughout April.

Mercifully, speeches were held inside the lobby and out of the weather, where community engagement coordinator Robin Arnott thanked donors, sponsors, researchers, volunteers and the politicians in the room for their ongoing support. 

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that displays many ways for different people. Tremors are the most familiar symptom but not everyone with Parkinson’s gets tremors.

The bottom line is that it’s progressive and there is no cure yet, but there a multitude of ways to manage the disease, including exercise, medication, therapies and support groups that can really help with the emotional side the disorder.

“We hope people will see the person beyond the diagnosis,” Arnott said. 

“And this is why awareness matters, and knowledge reduces stigma. Today is about hope.”

Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie said he’s spoken to people living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers and has an idea of what it’s like.

“One thing I’ve learned ... is that support groups are a major factor for helping through all stages of Parkinson’s,” he said.

Some people with Parkinson’s have a harder time speaking. Some have tremors. Some have other symptoms that may slow them down.

Be patient with people, Guthrie said, adding, “We need to give everyone in the world a bit of grace.”

Former Guelph MP Lloyd Longfield and his wife Barb attended. Barb was diagnosed with Parkinson’s four years ago but had displayed symptoms for 10 years.

“It’s hard to diagnose,” Lloyd said, noting Barb did not have the tell-tale tremors and her other symptoms didn’t immediately read as Parkinson’s to her doctors.

It’s also a heavy weight to bear, for the person with the disease and their caregivers.

“Kindness is not just for people with Parkinson’s and caring is not just for care partners,” he said.

“Choose to be kind each day. Look out for each other.”

The Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario (PSSO) offers dedicated support groups in Guelph, including a general Parkinson’s Support Group (second Thursday of the month, 2 to 3:30pm) and a Carepartner Support Group (fourth Wednesday of the month, 2 to 3:30pm).

These in-person and virtual meetings provide local resources and connection.

The Fergus Parkinson’s Support Group meets the fourth Thursday of each month from 1 to 2:30pm. 

To connect with a group, email info@psso.ca or call 1-888-851-7376.