Nancy Kelley to participate in Parkinson’s SuperWalk for her 20th year
By Joan Janzen
KINDERSLEY - Nancy Kelley is preparing for her twentieth year of participating in the Parkinson’s Canada SuperWalk in Saskatoon. The three km walk takes place annually at Spadina Crescent West; this year it will be held on Sunday, September 7th.
Nancy began participating in the Super Walk immediately after being diagnosed in 2005, and she hasn’t stopped ever since. Her passion for the cause has resulted in her being one of the top fundraisers for multiple years, raising as much as $12,000.00 annually.
September 7th will mark the twentieth year that Nancy Kelley will be participating in the Parkinson’s SuperWalk in Saskatoon.Photo (submitted)
This photo of Nancy and her granddaughter Lily was taken ten years ago. Lily wore a sticker on her back saying “I walk for my Nana”. This year, Lily is 16 years old and has never missed a walk with her Nana.Photo (submitted)
“Buoyed by the unwavering support of cherished friends and family, your enduring presence and generous contributions have been my beacon of hope as I navigate life with this disease,” Nancy wrote to her many supporters. “Your steadfast support fuels, not only my steps, but also vital research and assistance for those affected by Parkinson’s.”
Funds raised help to find a cure and support those living with Parkinson’s. It’s a huge endeavour as more than 100,000 Canadians are living with the effects of Parkinson’s disease and thirty are diagnosed every day, with estimates saying that number will increase to fifty within the next six years.
“With your continued support I am hopeful that we will find a cure for future generations. Thank you for standing by my side year after year in this journey to a world without Parkinson’s,” Nancy said to her supporters.
On September 7th, Nancy will be joined by a dozen or more family and friends as she fundraises for further education, advocacy, research and hopefully a cure.
In the meantime the local support group meets at 401 - 4th Avenue West in Kindersley on the second Wednesday of each month. The connection with others, along with regular exercise and walking helps those in attendance navigate through daily life and the effects of Parkinson’s.