Walks for Parkinson’s Disease raise over $500,000 across southwestern Ontario

FERGUS – Participants from 14 locations across southwestern Ontario came together to walk in support of Parkinson’s disease, ultimately raising over $500,000 for the cause.

The Parkinson’s Society of Southwestern Ontario announced the total raised for the 2024 Walk for Parkinson’s Disease in a media release on Sept. 20.

The walk was held on Sept. 7 and 8 and raised both funds and awareness.

Families and friends enjoyed a day filled with fun activities, entertainment and refreshments while making meaningful contributions, stated the release.

All funds stay local, helping to fund essential programs and services as well as research, education and advocacy efforts supporting over 10,000 people living with Parkinson’s in the region, officials added.

The Wellington-Dufferin area raised just over $41,000 through its walk in Fergus on  Sept. 7.

Across southwestern Ontario, nearly 200 volunteers and over 1,800 participants committed their time to support the cause.

“In the face of adversity our communities have shown incredible strength and compassion, proving that when we unite for a common cause, extraordinary things happen,” stated the release.

Officials say they were “deeply moved” by the “generosity” and “enthusiasm” of everyone involved in the fundraisers.