Parkinson’s fundraisers highlight need for support in fundraising

By Mike Renzella

The Haldimand Press

WATERFORD—John Stewart knows a thing or two about being dealt a rough hand. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012, he found his life changed in many ways.

Upon experiencing some spasms in his muscles, he went to see his doctor: “When I was diagnosed in Hamilton, the doctor took one look at me and said ‘you have Parkinson’s’. It was quite a shock initially.”

There are approximately 10,000 people in southwestern Ontario living with Parkinson’s, including roughly 500 cases within Haldimand Norfolk.

“It has affected my life quite a bit. I can’t do much, but I can walk. I see walking as a good thing for you. I lost my job because of it,” says Stewart. However, he has found new ways to engage with his community and find a positive outlook in life. “I am a school crossing guard now, and I love what I am doing.”