We are pleased to announce our first major contribution of $26,000 to Parkinson Alberta in support of their Tele-Support Group and Peer Program.

Parkinson disease is a progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder for which there is no known cause or cure, and is characterized by both motor and non-motor symptoms, all of which increase in severity as the disease progresses; directly and negatively impacting a person’s quality of life.

People with Parkinson disease, their care partners, and families require equitable access to a seamless and streamlined continuum of appropriate, high quality support services, education and resources regardless of where they live in the province. The Tele-Support Group and Peer Program provides services to those who may not be able to access traditional support groups due to geographic location, mobility, or transportation challenges. The Program offers support programming that addresses mental, emotional, and social issues (including feelings of isolation) that are a part of life with Parkinson disease in a way that is both accessible and tailored to the client.

With the support of the Alberta Retired Teachers Charitable Foundation (ARTCF), Parkinson Alberta will be able to run this program from September 2017 through June 2018.

The cheque was presented by Brian Scott, President of the Alberta Retired Teachers Charitable Foundation and Daniel Mulloy, Executive Director & CAO of the Alberta Retired Teachers’ Association (ARTA) to John Petryshen, CEO of Parkinson Alberta at the ARTA Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, October 3, 2017.