Luncheon to shine a light on Parkinson’s

THE Geelong community will gather next week to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease, showing how to fight it and how to help find a cure.

Local football figure and AFL Barwon administrator Sean Atkinson will lead proceedings at the Parkinson’s Fundraising Gala Luncheon in support of the Shake It Up Foundation.

Mr Atkinson, who was diagnosed with the progressive brain disorder last year, said the luncheon was a great chance for the region to learn more about his condition, which affects about 200,000 other Australians.

“When I went to Base Camp at Mount Everest earlier this year, I set a bit of a goal for myself that I want to continue to find a way to fundraise for the Shake It Up Foundation and not just sit idly following my diagnosis,” Mr Atkinson said.

“To be able to raise funds through this function will be incredible and we have several top-tier speakers for the event, too.

“With AFL Barwon supporting the event as well has made it a lot easier to pull it together as well, so for that I’m extremely grateful.”

Mr Atkinson said he had already received support from his employer, giving him an emotional boost in setting up the event.

Up to 250 guests at GMHBA Stadium’s Captains Room will hear from speakers including Shake It Up chief executive officer Vicki Miller, former state sport, tourism and major events minister John Eren, elite equestrian athlete Kylie Christian, and Parkinson’s disease advocate Ellyse Perry in the form of a special video interview.

Talented local singer-songwriter Camryn Fitzgerald will provide entertainment for the event, which will be compered by popular comedian and Shake It Up Foundation ambassador Dilruk Jayasinha.

“Hopefully we can continue to open up discussions in the community and spread awareness of what Parkinson’s disease really is,” Mr Atkinson said.

“I think there is a stigma with Parkinson’s; a lot of people don’t want to reveal they have it or exhibit any of the symptoms, that’s the biggest challenge about it.

“It’s getting people to embrace it and not being embarrassed by it. It’s certainly been something I’ve had to grapple with in my early stages with the disease. Hopefully that message can get across from this event.”

The August 9 luncheon will conclude with a raffle and silent auction, with all money raised going towards the Shake It Up Foundation’s efforts in research and finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease.

To secure a ticket to the function, head to intix.com/event/parkinsons-fundraising-gala-luncheon