PUMP It For Parkinson’s is back for its ninth year, kicking off at 12.01am Friday, 24th October.
Customers who participate will be raising funds to maintain the services of a Parkinson’s Specialist Nurse based in Coffs Harbour for the Mid North Coast Local Health District.
Long standing business supporters, the Bailey Centre Liberty Service Station and PK Express, are joined this year by the Paradox Agency, The Edge Real Estate, Coffs Neuro Physio, Mid North Coast Allied Health, and the community group Mentors for Men.
“This support has raised contributions to 28 cents up from 17 cents,” Coffs Harbour Parkinson’s Group spokesperson Graham Saxby told News Of The Area.
The Coffs Coast has had a dedicated Parkinson’s nurse since 2015, “that’s 10 years of specialist care for over 1000 families, all made possible by community generosity.
“On average, there [are] five Coffs Coast people and their families needing this service every month.”
This year, a Parkinsons NSW backed support group was established at Woolgoolga – with support and guidance from the nurse – helping to extend connections to the community and others with Parkinson’s in the Upper Mid North Coast.
A new advanced therapy that became available in Australia a few months ago is already being supplied locally, thanks to the specialist nurse providing ongoing care.
“We appreciate the support of the local group, health authorities and others in making this a great annual event,” Bailey Centre Management’s Alan Bailey said.
“A long-term employee has the degenerative condition along with others I know in our community.”
Owner of PK Express David Strickland has involved his company in the fundraiser for many years.
“I have several friends and mates of a similar age to myself, and they have had serious problems with this terrible illness,” he said.
“This is very sad, and we really would love to see a cure or at least ways to extend quality of life.
“Dig deep and fuel up any vehicle you have, to help raise the cash level.”
The staff and management of new supporter Paradox Agency choose to get behind local initiatives that make a difference close to home.
“Pump it for Parkinson’s is a great example. [It] is driven by the local support group and The Bailey Centre, with so many local businesses pitching in,” Operations Manager Kelsie Grieve said.
“It’s all about keeping funds local, for locals, and we’re proud to play a part in that.”
The Edge Real Estate Marketing Manager David Conway quoted the company’s leadership philosophy: “As our Directors have always said, real estate isn’t just about land and houses, it’s about how and where we live.
“That sense of connection and care is exactly why we’re supporting Pump it for Parkinson’s.
“It’s a simple act, filling up your tank, which fuels something much bigger; compassion, support and better health outcomes for local families.
“Every litre really does count.”
Another new business on board, Mid North Coast Allied Health, is supporting the fundraiser “because it shines a light on a cause close to our hearts,” Managing Principal, Aaron Hardaker said.
“Through our physio-led PD Warrior classes and Parkinson’s-specific care, we see every day how exercise empowers people living with Parkinson’s to move better, live well, and stay connected.”
At Coffs Neuro Physio, the staff see the impact of Parkinson’s disease every day and the incredible difference that local specialist nurses make.
Director and Neurological/Vestibular Physiotherapist Amanda O’Neill said, “After more than a decade of helping people live stronger, more independent lives, I know how vital this support is, and that’s exactly what this fundraiser helps sustain and why we’re so proud to be involved.”
By Andrea FERRARI
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