Issuu

Sue’s Bingo Night Raises Over

$8,000

for Parkinson’s WA!

Meet Sue — a long-time supporter, passionate advocate, and cherished member of our community.

Sue was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2010, and ever since, she’s been an inspiring example of strength, creativity, and generosity. Over the years, she’s not only used the services provided by Parkinson’s WA, but she’s also given back in countless ways — from fundraising for A Walk in the Park, to selling her beautiful artwork, to hosting community events that bring people together.

And this year, Sue did it again.

To mark World Parkinson’s Day, she organised and hosted a Bingo Night — and what a night it was! With 251 tickets sold and a room full of energy, laughter, and connection, the event was a complete sell-out and a huge success. Thanks to Sue’s dedication and the incredible support of everyone who attended, the night raised over $8,000 to support people living with Parkinson’s in WA.

Sue shared “I was blown away by the generosity of local businesses and people who were only

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LOCATION/POSTAL ADDRESS

The Niche, 11 Aberdare Road, Nedlands, WA 6009

TELEPHONE (08) 6457 7373

FAX (08) 6457 7374

FREECALL 1800 644 189

EMAIL info@parkinsonswa.org.au

WEBSITE parkinsonswa.org.au

CHAIR

Gary Steinepreis

DEPUTY CHAIR

Professor Natalie Gasson

TREASURER

Peter Roberts

SECRETARY

Tamlyn Lennox

BOARD

Clinical Professor David Blacker, AM, Kate Roberts, Geoff Waldock

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Yasmin Naglazas

OFFICE MANAGER

Toby Gummer

MARKETING AND FUNDRAISING MANAGER

Kerrin Girando

BUSINESS SUPPORT, CLINICAL SERVICE DEVELOPMENT, GOVERNANCE, AND RESEARCH

Laurie Dyer

FINANCE MANAGER

Salil Koonja

CLINICAL LEAD

Sheree Ambrosini

PARKINSON’S NURSE SPECIALISTS

Amanda Coultous, Fiona Roscoe, Jo Chadwick, Kayleigh Rawle, Donna Mallaby, Tina Williamson

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

fundraising@parkinsonswa.org.au

Disclaimer - Parkinson’s Western Australia Inc has endeavoured to ensure that the information in this newsletter is accurate; however, we accept no responsibility for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in respect to the information contained in the material provided by Parkinson’s Western Australia Inc. Nor is the provision of material by Parkinson’s Western Australia Inc. to be construed as any representation that there is no other material or information available in relation to the information provided. Further, Parkinson’s Western Australia Inc. accepts no responsibility for persons who may rely upon this information for whatever purposes.

FROM THE CEO’S DESK

The Power of Connection and Support –Building Our Community Together

As we move through another year, I’m continually moved by the deep strength and resilience that comes from connection and support—the kind that is built through understanding, shared experience, and genuine care. At Parkinson’s WA, our aspiration has always gone beyond simply providing services or information. At the heart of all we do is a commitment to building a true community—one that lifts each other up, walks beside each person living with Parkinson’s, and never lets anyone feel alone.

The connection and support within our community are more than just comforting—it is transformative. When individuals and families come together to share their journeys—the challenges, the small victories, the laughter, and the tears—something powerful happens. A sense of belonging is created. That connection doesn’t just enrich lives—it inspires action. And we’ve seen that firsthand. More and more, we are witnessing people stepping forward to give—of their time, their stories, and their generosity. Donations are increasing because people see the impact. They feel part of something meaningful.

This sense of shared purpose also resonates with our charitable partners. We were incredibly grateful to receive a generous pledge from the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation, made in recognition of what the Trust Directors described as “the great work undertaken in continuing to provide services to the community.” The pledge will go directly toward strengthening our Support Groups—safe spaces where people come together regularly to find information, encouragement, and community. It will also enhance our Support Group Leaders Development Day, helping leaders across WA share ideas and grow stronger together. I have no doubt the impact of this will be deeply felt and appreciated by all who participate.

PWA has experienced one of its busiest years yet, driven by a growing number of diagnoses across the state, particularly in regional Western Australia. Following the generous donation from the McCusker Foundation during the 2024/2025 financial year to fund a Parkinson’s Nurse in Regional WA, we have recently been advised that the pledge will continue into the next year. Thanks to the McCusker Foundation’s support, we’ve been able to significantly enhance what we provide to those living with Parkinson’s in regional WA, particularly in the South West.

As I’ve shared before, we were truly heartened by the Federal Government’s announcement of $800,000 in funding to develop and implement Australia’s first National Parkinson’s Action Plan. This is an exciting step forward, designed to ensure a coordinated and fair approach to care, research, and support for people living with Parkinson’s across the country. We are proud to contribute to this important work and to help ensure the voices and needs of Western Australians are heard.

Looking ahead, our focus remains steady and strong: deepening connection and strengthening support. Whether through in-person meetups or digital outreach, we are committed to reaching more people, hearing more stories, and ensuring that no one feels isolated. Because at Parkinson’s WA, every voice matters, and every person adds to the strength of our community.

Thank you, from my heart, for allowing us to be part of your journey.

Adj Professor Yasmin Naglazas Chief Executive Officer

From the Nurses’ Desks

April was a a special month for our community as we celebrated World Parkinson’s Month and World Parkinson’s Day on April 11th. This day honours the birthday of Dr. James Parkinson and his pioneering work on the first detailed description of Parkinson’s disease.

It was an opportunity for us to improve knowledge of Parkinson’s in the wider community and increase awareness of the many different faces of Parkinson’s. To mark this occasion, landmarks around the world were lit up in recognition of World Parkinson’s Day. A huge thank you to all the incredible locations in WA for supporting our cause and shining a light on Parkinson’s awareness.

We are excited to welcome Tina Williamson to the Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist team. Tina is a fantastic addition, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team. If you see her around, be sure to say hello and give her a warm

welcome. We’re so happy to have her with us!

Some of our team members headed off to the 2025 Parkinson’s Australia Conference in Canberra. Fiona, Jo, Toby, and Tina represented us at the conference, and we can’t wait to hear all about their experiences and the new insights they bring back. Conferences like these are invaluable for staying up-to-date with the latest research and treatments, and we’re lucky to have such dedicated team members. As always, thank you for your continued support and dedication.

Sheree Ambrosini Clinical Lead - Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist

How to Contact Your Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist

As the demand for our services continues to grow, we want to ensure you’re getting the support you need—when you need it most. That’s why it’s important for our clients to contact us directly if you have a question, concern, or would like to request a home visit.

Due to the increasing demand, we rely on our clients to call us for appointments when they are required. Our Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists will not schedule ongoing appointments, giving you the flexibility to reach out at your convenience. The best way to schedule your next appointment is to is to call the Parkinson’s WA office on (08) 6457 7373.

Our team will pass your message on to your nurse, and they will be in contact as soon as they are able.

We are trialling a new triage system, so all phone queries are responded to promptly. If you call the PWA office with any questions, your call will be prioritised and handled promptly by one of the Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists. We’re here to help—but we need your help, too. Please don’t hesitate to reach out when you need support.

Tina Williamson

Gut Health and Nutrition in Parkinson’s

by Fiona Roscoe- Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist

There has been much interest in the topic of gut health in Parkinson’s in recent years.

The Gut- Brain Axis- Where does Parkinson’s start? Research suggests that the health of the intestine can impact brain health. Current theory suggests that Parkinson’s and it’s progression ‘may’ be influenced by gut health. We know that Parkinson’s affects the muscles and nerves that line the Gastrointestinal tract and that Lewy bodies, the pathological hallmark of Parkinson’s are found in the gut. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in Parkinson’s at all stages of the gut such as drooling, difficulty swallowing, nausea, bloating and constipation; defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week, straining, hard stools, or a sensation of incomplete emptying. This can be a prominent symptom, even occurring years before motor symptoms.

The Gut Microbiome

The importance of our microbiome is increasingly recognised: The gut microbiome is the ecosystem of microbes that live in your intestines. Our microbiome plays a critical role in regulating neuro inflammation which is known to be part of Parkinson’s. While this is a growing field of research, we know that there are significant differences in the composition of bacteria that live in the gut for people with Parkinson’s and for people without the condition. Research suggests that the microbiome of people with Parkinson’s consist of less healthy bacteria when compared to those without the condition. What remains unclear is whether this is a cause or consequence of the condition.

GOOD NEWS! - The foods we eat affect the health and diversity of our gut microbiome There are known links between wellness, healthy aging and a healthy gut.

It is recognised that certain dietary manipulations can have a positive impact on Parkinson’s symptoms. When we think about nutritional choices for people with Parkinson’s the evidence directs us towards the Mediterranean diet, this diet is naturally rich in

fibre, essential protein, healthy fats, unprocessed carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

In addition, research has shown the Mediterranean diet has both heart and brain health benefits and is associated with lower rates of Parkinson’s.

By following the Mediterranean diet and including a wide variety of fibrous foods into our diet we are incorporating prebiotic foods into our gut. This acts as fuel for beneficial bacteria to grow in our gut. At this point we can eat a variety of probiotic fermented foods and drinks such as live yoghurt, kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut and others. Many people with Parkinson’s acknowledge that their constipation improves when following these steps.

The MIND diet (The Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) is also a reasonable diet for someone with Parkinson’s to follow. This diet is a hybrid of the Mediterranean diet and the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension). The MIND diet is associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease as well as lower risk and slower progression of Parkinsonism in the elderly.

Other diets

If you do not have celiac disease, there is no evidence that a gluten-free diet is necessary. Due to the potential risks and the very restrictive nature of the diet, more data is needed before a ketogenic diet for Parkinson’s can be recommended.

Vitamin deficiencies

Studies demonstrate that vitamin deficiencies, particularly B complex and Vit D are common in people with Parkinson’s and may be associated with disease progression and severity. If you are concerned about vitamin deficiencies consult with your GP and a registered dietitian. Focus on a balanced diet and consider supplementation. A note of caution; there is a risk of toxicity with high dose supplements so always consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on a supplemental regime.

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DEAR NURSES,

Dear Nurses,

I’ve been experiencing a lot of stiffness and difficulty moving around, especially in the mornings. It’s really affecting my daily routine and making it hard to stay active. I find it particularly challenging to get out of bed and start my day, and this stiffness often lingers for hours, making simple tasks feel overwhelming. I’m looking for ways to make my mornings easier and more manageable.

Sincerely, Tight and Tense

Dear Tight and Tense,

Morning stiffness can indeed be a challenging aspect of living with Parkinson’s, but there are several strategies that might help ease your symptoms and improve your mobility.

1. Warm-Up Exercises: Gentle stretching and warm-up exercises can help loosen your muscles and joints. Try starting your day with some simple stretches or yoga poses to get your body moving.

2. Warm Showers or Baths: Taking a warm shower or bath in the morning can help relax your muscles and reduce stiffness. The heat can be very soothing and make it easier to move around.

3. Medication Timing: Ensure that you are taking your Parkinson’s medication as prescribed. Sometimes, adjusting the timing of your medication can help manage morning stiffness better. Discuss this with your doctor to see if any adjustments are needed.

4. Hydration and Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also play a role in managing stiffness. Dehydration can worsen muscle stiffness, so make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day.

5. Physiotherapy: Working with a physical therapist who specializes in Parkinson’s can provide you with tailored exercises and techniques to manage stiffness and improve your overall mobility.

Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. If you find that your stiffness continues or worsens, please reach out to your specialist or Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist for more advice and support. Wishing you smoother mornings and easier movements!

Yours

The Nurses

Park C Update

2024 was a busy and rewarding year for ParkC, and 2025 is shaping up to be just as busy! Dr Emily Corti is now a permanent member of the academic staff at Curtin University (Congratulations Emily!) and is continuing her research in Parkinson’s. PhD student Kara has joined ParkC as a Research Assistant and is running our PWA-funded study exploring whether brain stimulation can improve thinking skills in people with Parkinson’s. PhD student Ramishka is running focus groups exploring how people with Parkinson’s and their partners navigate conversations. It is hoped that her findings will lead to a co-designed conversation treatment program for people with Parkinson’s and their partners. Asha, Zahra, and Andrea are completing their honours studies with ParkC this year. Asha’s study is exploring whether people with Parkinson’s make changes to their diet, how they do this, and why. Zahra is exploring the relationships between self-reported memory and actual memory performance in Parkinson’s, and Andrea is exploring whether daytime sleepiness impacts upon thinking skills in those with Parkinson’s.

We always need people, with and without Parkinson’s, to take part in our research. You can find out more about each of our studies by:

• Visiting our website at https://parkc.co/current-research

• Emailing us at parkc@curtin.edu.au

• Emailing Dr Andrea Loftus at andrea.loftus@curtin.edu.au

The whole premise of ParkC is inclusivity and we try to operate as a ‘consumer-led’ research group. This means we seek to involve the Parkinson’s community in our science, and we love discussing research ideas with the Parkinson’s community. If you have any ideas you would like to discuss, please do contact us via email.

Thank you,

The team at Park C

Finding the Right Balance: Exercise and Parkinson’s

Sheree Ambrosini

Clinical Lead - Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist

Exercise is crucial for managing Parkinson’s, offering numerous benefits to mobility, balance, and overall well-being. It’s truly something to celebrate! However, recent research by Boon and colleagues in Movement Disorders Clinical Practice highlights a lesser-known aspect: the potential risks of over-exercise in Parkinson’s. Even beneficial activities like exercise are best enjoyed in moderation.

The article highlights that while exercise is widely acknowledged as beneficial, doing too much can sometimes lead to challenges such as fatigue, increased physical strain, or unintentional weight loss. These findings remind us that listening to our bodies is key to unlocking the full potential of exercise.

Two real-life examples from the research highlight the importance of balance in exercise. In one case, a woman initially believed that intensive exercise could completely counteract her condition. However, she learned that a more balanced approach was key to achieving

positive outcomes. Another individual faced physical strain after a long hike and treadmill session, which led to a valuable lesson in setting realistic expectations. These stories emphasize the importance of listening to our bodies and embracing a balanced approach to staying active, ultimately leading to better health and well-being. So, how can we make sure exercise remains our ally? Think of it as a tool for empowerment: with the right approach, it can build strength, improve coordination, and help you feel your best. Here’s a simple tip to keep in mind—if you’re feeling unusually tired the day after a workout, that’s your body’s way of asking you to adjust your routine. It’s also helpful to work with healthcare professionals to create a personalized exercise plan that fits your unique needs.

Our community plays a significant role in promoting mindful exercise. By encouraging balance and sustainability, we can help everyone maximize the benefits of physical activity. Exercise is essential for managing Parkinson’s, and maintaining balance is crucial. By staying attuned to your body’s needs and adopting a thoughtful approach, you can continue to improve your health and well-being. Let’s keep the conversation going and support each other in staying active and healthy.

SOUTHWEST News

Parkinson’s WA Expands Services with New Southwest Regional Office

Parkinson’s WA is proud to announce the opening of a new regional office in the Southwest. Reaffirming our commitment to supporting and empowering people living with Parkinson’s across Western Australia. Our new location at Lotteries House Bunbury marks a significant step in expanding our reach, ensuring that individuals, families, and carers in the Southwest have greater access to essential services, tailored care, and a strong community network.

Bringing Services Closer to Home

Our new Southwest office will offer face-toface clinic appointments with Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists, providing expert advice, individualised care planning, and symptom management support. These clinics will play a crucial role in improving quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s and their loved ones in regional communities.

We are also excited to continue regular monthly Parkinson’s Support Groups, creating safe and welcoming spaces for individuals to connect, share experiences, and support one another. These groups feature guest speakers from a range of disciplines to provide valuable insights, practical tools, and emotional supports for those with and care for someone with Parkinson’s. In addition, PWA SW have the capacity to offer a newly established monthly Carers Group.

A Holistic and Flexible Model of Care

While the regional office will increase opportunities for inperson engagement, we remain committed to meeting people wherever they are. Our muchvalued home visiting service will continue, enabling our Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists to provide care in the comfort and familiarity of people’s homes.

We are also maintaining our services in hospitals and aged care facilities throughout the

Southwest, working alongside other healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care and coordinated support.

Recognising the unique challenges of distance and travel in regional areas, we have a hybrid model of support that includes telephone and telehealth services. This flexible approach ensures ongoing access to advice and care between faceto-face appointments, supporting individuals in remote parts of the region.

Empowering Lives, Strengthening Communities

The opening of our Southwest regional office reflects Parkinson’s WA’s deep commitment

to improving outcomes for people living with Parkinson’s through greater access, consistent support, and local community connection.

Fiona and I look forward to working closely with individuals, families, carers, and health professionals in the Southwest to continue building a strong, informed, and compassionate network of care.

For more information or to access services through our new Southwest regional office, please visit www.parkinsonswa.org.au or call 08 6457 7371.

Together, we can make a difference.

Till next time, Donna.

Patricia’s Creative Way of Giving Back to Parkinson’s WA

Patricia, a resident of the South West, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2022. As she navigated her new reality, she reached out to Parkinson’s WA for support and quickly found a lifeline in Donna, her dedicated Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist. Living with Parkinson’s can feel isolating, but with Donna’s expertise and the guidance from the team at Parkinson’s WA, Patricia felt empowered to take charge of her health and well-being.

Grateful for the invaluable support she has received, Patricia wanted to find a way to give back to the organisation that had made such a positive impact on her life. So, she decided to reach out to the team at Parkinson’s WA to explore how she could help.

In 2023, Patricia combined her love for crochet with her desire to support the cause. She created a beautiful collection of crochet rugs, which she raffled off to raise funds for Parkinson’s WA. Her efforts were nothing short of remarkable, raising an incredible $560 for the organisation. This year, Patricia took her creativity to the next level, crocheting adorable cheeky chickens,

which she has been selling for $5 each. With the help of her Geriatricians and Podiatrists’ offices, Patricia has sold 73 of these charming creations to date, spreading both joy and awareness for Parkinson’s.

Looking ahead, Patricia is excited to run her raffle once again this year, continuing to support Parkinson’s WA and the work they do for individuals living with Parkinson’s. Through her crochet creations, Patricia is not only raising money but also spreading a message of hope and community, showing just how powerful it can be when we all come together to support one another.

Thank you, Patricia, for your incredible generosity and creativity—your contributions are making a real difference in the lives of those living with Parkinson’s.

Patricia with Geriatrician Dr Ramesh and his office staff

Support Group Leaders Development Day: Connecting, Learning, and Growing Together

On Tuesday 6th February, Parkinson’s WA was proud to host our Support Group Leaders Development Day, a special event dedicated to the incredible volunteers who lead and nurture our community support groups across the state.

Held at our offices, the day brought together leaders from across WA to connect, learn, and share their invaluable experiences in a relaxed and supportive setting. These passionate individuals play a vital role in the lives of people living with Parkinson’s — creating welcoming spaces where members can find understanding, encouragement, and friendship.

The day began with a warm welcome from Yasmin Naglazas, CEO of Parkinson’s WA, who acknowledged the dedication and impact of our support group leaders. Sheree Ambrosini, Clinical Lead, provided an insightful update on the latest developments in Parkinson’s care and research. Her presentation was followed by a dynamic Q&A session, where leaders had the opportunity to ask questions and share real-world concerns and observations from their groups.

A highlight of the day was the group sharing session, where attendees exchanged practical ideas and strategies that help support groups

thrive — from creative meeting formats to community outreach tips. The room was buzzing with inspiration, camaraderie, and a shared passion for making a difference.

After a well-earned lunch break, the group enjoyed a light-hearted and engaging activity thanks to the team at House of Hobby.

As the day wrapped up, we took a moment to sincerely thank our Support Group Leaders Every single one of them is a volunteer, generously giving their time, energy, and heart to help others. Their dedication forms the backbone of our community, and we are incredibly grateful for all that they do.

To all our Support Group Leaders — thank you. You are the heart of Parkinson’s WA.

Rikki and Sue - Mandurah Support Group

Irena and Di – New Support Group

Val and CarolynKingsley Support Group

Pat and Cara - Fremantle Carers Support Group

Celebrating 17 Years of Twilight Sailing: A Tradition that Sets Sail with Heart

Twilight Sailing has become one of the most cherished traditions for our members at Parkinson’s WA, and this year marks our 17th wonderful season in partnership with the South of Perth Yacht Club. Aside from a brief pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, our sails have been steadily catching the breeze every summer — bringing joy, laughter, and a sense of freedom to our community.

This beloved event began with a heartfelt idea from the late Peter Willmott — a passionate sailor, long-time member of the South of Perth Yacht Club, and respected insurance professional. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1999, Peter reached out to our Nurse Specialist service for support. He quickly became an integral part of the Parkinson’s WA family, serving on our Board for many years and bringing his signature wit and warmth to everything he did.

Peter’s love of sailing and his generous spirit led him to propose an idea: an evening on the water for people with Parkinson’s. What started as one evening has since blossomed into one of our most eagerly anticipated social events of the year — a time when symptoms fade into the background and participants can simply enjoy the serenity of the Swan River.

Though Peter passed away in 2018, his legacy continues to ripple through every wave we ride. Each year, we raise a glass in his memory — on the river he loved so dearly.

Celebrating 10 Years of Dance for Parkinson’s in Western Australia

What a truly magical day it was as we came together to celebrate 10 incredible years of Dance for Parkinson’s in Western Australia!

Parkinson’s WA was so happy to partner with Lifespan Dance and share this milestone. It was so special to have four of the original dancers join us, adding an extra layer of meaning and joy to the occasion.

Lois, Derek, Shelley, and John—all still attending classes today and their shared heartfelt words that touched everyone in the room. Their stories and continued participation are a testament to the power of dance in improving lives and bringing people together. It was such an honour to celebrate with them. Here’s to many more classes, many more performances, and the lasting impact of this incredible journey!

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too willing to donate items or vouchers for prizes, and their time to set up and help on the night. I’d love to thank everyone who helped in some way to make the night such a success. “

“The shirts that the helpers wore were commented on throughout the night and looked great. I’m going to sell the ones that say, ‘Parkinson’s picked the wrong mob to mess with’. We are so thankful to Sue — not just for her fundraising, but for the joy, creativity, and heart

The guests were treated to some wonderful guest speakers who contributed to making the day so special:

• Yasmin Nagalazas, CEO of Parkinson’s Western Australia

• Gary Hodge, Chair of Ausdance WA

• Ella Waterworth, Lead Teacher at Lifespan Dance

• Jac El-Saleh, Dance & Philanthropy through Australian Cultural Fund

And, of course, a special video message from Erica-Rose Jeffrey, Director of Dance for Parkinson’s, who couldn’t be there in person but was still very much part of the celebration.

The day was capped off with the screening of the stunning film ‘Capturing Grace’, a poignant reminder of the transformative power of dance. The film highlighted the ongoing evolution of dance as a vital social connector, touching hearts and inspiring all who were present.

As we reflect on 10 years of dance and community, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement for the future. Here’s to many more years of joy, movement, and connection!

Paige Gordon Director & Lead Teacher - LIFESPAN Dance

she brings to everything she does. Her efforts are a reminder of the power one person has to make a real, lasting difference.

Parkinson’s WA Team Gains

Valuable

Insights at 2025 National Congress

The Parkinson’s Australia 2025 Congress, held in Canberra from April 6th to 8th, was a significant event for the Parkinson’s community in Australia.

Themed “CONNECTION” the congress brought together over 500 delegates, including scientists, health professionals, individuals living with Parkinson’s, caregivers, and policymakers from across the Asia-Pacific region. The theme underscored the importance of building networks and fostering collaboration to advance the understanding and treatment of Parkinson’s.

Representing Parkinson’s WA at the congress were Fiona Roscoe, Tina Williamson, Jo Chadwick, and Toby Gummer. Their attendance was incredibly beneficial for the PWA community, bringing back valuable information that will significantly benefit the rest of the PWA team and the community, improving the support and care available to those living with Parkinson’s.

Keynote speakers at the congress included Professor Roger Barker from the UK, Dr. Laurie Mischley from the USA, and Richelle Flanagan from Ireland. These experts shared their latest research findings and insights into Parkinson’s, offering a global perspective on the challenges and advancements in the field. Professor Barker, a leading expert in clinical neuroscience, discussed the latest developments in cell and gene therapy. Dr. Mischley, known for her work in naturopathic medicine, focused on data-driven interventions and practical ways to live well with Parkinson’s.

L-R: Toby Gummer, Olivia Nassaris, Tina Williamson, Fiona Roscoe and Jo Chadwick

Richelle Flanagan, a dietitian and co-founder of The Women’s Parkinson’s Project, highlighted the unique challenges faced by women with Parkinson’s, including issues related to pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause.

One of the notable speakers was our Board Director Dr. David Blacker from the Perron Institute. Dr. Blacker, spoke about the need to ban paraquat, a widely used herbicide linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s. Drawing from his personal experience with Parkinson’s, Dr. Blacker emphasised the importance of recognising environmental factors in the development of Parkinson’s and advocated for policy changes to protect public health.

The congress was important for Australia’s Parkinson’s community as it provided a platform for sharing the latest research, treatments, and innovations aimed at improving the lives of those living with Parkinson’s. It also offered tailored sessions designed to provide attendees with practical information and strategies to enhance their quality of life.

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It can be difficult to sift through all the information on the internet about foods and supplements that may or may not benefit people with Parkinson’s and research is ongoing.

We do know that gut health is an integral part of Parkinson’s management

• In conclusion; eat a varied well-balanced diet to optimise good health.

• Avoid dietary restrictions

• Supplements are expensive and are often unnecessary if eating well.

Talk to your healthcare team about your nutrition concerns and work together with them to ensure you are following a dietary plan that is best suited for you and your particular needs.

Always consult your Dr, Parkinson’s Nurse or Accredited Dietician for individualised advice.

Volunteer Spotlight - Judith Baker

L-R: Ray Ayres, Phil Boyce, Maureen Clutter-buck, Judith and (at front) Karen Boyce - at the Midland Support Group Christmas Party.

How long have you been volunteering for Parkinson’s WA?

I have been volunteering for about six years, with three of those years spent supporting the Parkinson’s group in Collie. It brings me great joy to support my husband, Kevan, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012. I also enjoy connecting with others who have Parkinson’s. The Midland Group is a wonderful, positive community, and as their Treasurer, I help out wherever I can, including running the kitchen.

What part of volunteering for Parkinson’s WA do you love the most?

I’m grateful that I’m able to take on these roles and support Kevan as well. I was asked to step in as Treasurer when Judy became very ill and could no longer continue. Later, I was asked to manage the kitchen and organise the monthly

morning teas, which I truly enjoy. I’ll continue doing this as long as I’m able.

Favorite place you’ve travelled?

A few years ago, while Kevan was still able, we took a cruise to New Zealand. It was lovely to travel outside of Australia, and as a homebody, I found the cruise to be perfect. We went with our son Eric and his partner Karen, who always join us on our trips, which makes it even more special. We’ve been on 4 or 5 trips together.

Describe what a perfect day would look like for you?

A perfect day for me would be having a conversation with Kevan that he doesn’t forget in just five minutes. I make it a point to take him out for lunch as often as I can, just to get him out of the house. Parkinson’s is incredibly tough on a person, so anything I can do to ease his experience means a lot. That’s why the Support Group Meetings are so valuable – they provide him with the chance to meet others and have conversations.

Share a fun fact or your favourite quote: “One day at a time, forget what happened yesterday – today is all that matters.” And I love Kevan very much.

Supporting Parkinson’s WA: A Personal Mission to Make a Difference

Denby’s Dad, who is 48, has been living with Parkinson’s, and her family understands just how challenging Parkinson’s can be. She has watched as her dad has experienced the daily struggles firsthand and this motivated her to support Parkinson’s WA by raising funds for those affected by Parkinson’s and their families. Through her business, Elevate Movement Pilates, Denby is

Denby with her father - who is living with Parkinson’s

We Did It — $30,495 Raised for Parkinson’s WA!

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We’re thrilled to share some inspiring news with you — thanks to your generosity, we’ve raised an incredible $30,495 to support people living with Parkinson’s in Western Australia!

This remarkable total was reached in just 48 hours — a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together as a community. Every donation, large or small, played a part in reaching this milestone, and we are truly grateful.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Beyond Bank, who chose us as one of only two WA organisations to receive matched funding. Their generous contribution of up to $10,000 made a huge difference, and we deeply appreciate their partnership and shared commitment to supporting those affected by Parkinson’s.

It’s especially meaningful to celebrate this achievement on World Parkinson’s Day — a time to honour the strength and courage of those living with Parkinson’s, along with the families, carers, and health professionals who support them every step of the way.

This success is more than a fundraising total — it’s a powerful reminder of the compassion, community spirit, and hope that drives our mission forward.

From all of us, thank you.

committed to holding regular fundraising events throughout the year to make a positive impact.

Pilates holds a special place in her heart, and she is thrilled that her dad participates in her classes. Pilates has been helping him manage his hand tremors and relieve his back pain, bringing noticeable improvements to his quality of life.

Living in Geraldton and as a small town she has seen the unique opportunity to spread awareness of Parkinson’s, the challenges it brings, and the importance of supporting both individuals with

Parkinson’s and their families.

In an incredible act of generosity, Denby’s partner, Ethan Hodge, donated the money raised through her classes to Parkinson’s WA. Denby’s dedication, combined with Ethan’s generous donation, reflects a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s.

By partnering with Parkinson’s WA, she hopes to bring more attention to this cause and help those who need it most.