The Parliamentary Friends of Parkinson’s held its second event of the year at NSW Parliament House on 5 May. More than 50 people attended including members of the Parkinson’s community, Members of Parliament and parliamentary staffers.

The Parliamentary Friends initiative aims to strengthen understanding of Parkinson’s and support better access to services for people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers.

The event’s theme was Step Up for Parkinson’s – a fundraising and educational campaign which takes place throughout May. It showcased the importance of exercise for people living with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s NSW staff set the scene dressed in colourful 80’s era workout clothes and encouraged audience participation at four exercise stations positioned around the function room.

Exercises simulated the daily physical challenges facing those living with Parkinson’s including tremor, lack of fine motor control, difficulties with balance, and stiff legs.

Speakers at the event included Phil Donato, Member for Orange, and Dr Joe McGirr, Member for Wagga Wagga who are Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends group and Robert Dwyer, Member for Port Macquarie, who is Vice Chair.

Dr Michael Holland, Member for Bega and Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Regional Health, discussed the importance of regional healthcare for Parkinson’s patients and their care partners.

Physiotherapist Andrew Han spoke about the evidence of exercise being crucial for people living with Parkinson’s. Mary Kay Walker, CEO of Parkinson’s NSW, provided an update on the National Parkinson’s Action plan and explained the importance of Step Up for Parkinson’s.