Parkinson's ZA made remarkable strides in supporting the Parkinson's community in Durban since its inception in 2022. With a focus on enhancing mobility and social confidence, the organisation achieved significant milestones and hosted a series of impactful activities. Their efforts included delivering 71 rehabilitation workshops free of charge every Thursday, launching the first retirement home program in Howick, and starting the first Parkinsons Table Tennis League in Durban. These initiatives not only provided essential support but also fostered a sense of community and empowerment among participants. The organisation's commitment to expanding its reach and hosting national events highlights its dedication to improving the lives of those affected by Parkinson's Disease.
Remarkable Milestones
Parkinson's ZA delivered 71 rehabilitation workshops free of charge to the Durban community every Thursday. These workshops became an essential part of their mission, providing much-needed support and improving the quality of life for participants. Each session offered tailored exercises and activities designed to enhance mobility, balance, and overall physical well-being. The consistent attendance and positive feedback from participants underscored the value of these workshops. By the end of 2023, the organisation had over 100 members and 63 carers, reflecting the growing trust and support within the community.
In December 2023, Parkinson's ZA launched its first retirement home program in Howick. This initiative was well-received, offering specialised care and tailored activities to residents with Parkinson's Disease. The program's success in Howick inspired plans to replicate this model in other retirement homes across the country, further extending their reach and impact. The initiative aimed to provide a supportive environment where residents could engage in meaningful activities and receive the necessary care to manage their condition effectively.
The first Parkinsons Table Tennis League started in Durban, with weekly sessions every Monday. The league garnered significant enthusiasm, attracting participants eager to engage in a fun and therapeutic activity. Table tennis has been recognized for its benefits in improving hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and social interaction, making it an ideal sport for those with Parkinson's. The success of the league led to preparations for the first national Parkinsons Table Tennis Championship, set to take place in 2024. This event aims to bring together participants from various regions, fostering a sense of community and healthy competition among individuals affected by Parkinson's Disease.
Overall, these initiatives highlight Parkinson's ZA's commitment to enhancing the lives of those living with Parkinson's Disease through innovative and community-focused programs.
Activities that Happened
The year 2024 was eventful and impactful for Parkinson's ZA, with several major activities taking place:
World Parkinsons Month Event: On Monday, 15 April 2024, Parkinsons ZA co-hosted World Parkinsons Month with Nkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital. The event featured presentations from five distinguished doctors from Durban, who offered valuable insights and information on Parkinson's Disease.
#Walk4Parkinsons Event: On Saturday, 20 April 2024, the second annual #Walk4Parkinsons event took place on the Durban Beachfront. This event aimed to raise awareness and support for the Parkinson's community, encouraging participation from friends, family, and associates.
Movers & Shakers Program
In 2023, Parkinson's ZA launched the Movers & Shakers program, inviting individuals competing in various events to register and raise funds for the organisation. Among the notable Movers & Shakers were:
Nita Oberholzer: Known as 'The Unicorn', Nita is a disabled athlete who walks and runs to raise funds for charities. In February 2024, she completed a 75-mile (120 km) journey to raise awareness for Parkinson's Disease. Support her efforts by donating here.
Shreeya Mahadeo: A South African national chess champion and the youngest Mover & Shaker, Shreeya aimed to win more tournaments at provincial and national levels. She dedicated her achievements to her grandad, a Parkinson's patient and member of Parkinson's ZA since 2013. Show your support for Shreeya by donating here.
Community Support from Seeff Berea, Westville, and Durban North
Community support has been a cornerstone of Parkinson's ZA's success. Notably, Rosh Naidoo and Eggamberi Naidoo from Seeff Berea, Westville, and Durban North were steadfast supporters of the organisation's events. Their presence and encouragement were invaluable, helping to boost morale and raise awareness for Parkinson's Disease. The Naidoos' active participation demonstrated a powerful example of community leadership, inspiring others to contribute and get involved. Their efforts included not only attending events but also mobilising resources and support within their network, significantly amplifying the reach and impact of Parkinson's ZA's initiatives.
This kind of dedicated support has been critical for Parkinson's ZA, as it has enabled the organization to expand its services and enhance its programs. The sense of solidarity and shared purpose has energised the members and carers, fostering a stronger, more cohesive community. The backing from prominent community figures like the Naidoos has also helped in securing additional funding and partnerships, which are essential for sustaining and growing the organization's activities.
Parkinsons ZA continues to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by Parkinson's Disease. With ongoing community support and a robust lineup of activities, the organization looks forward to enhancing the quality of life for those living with Parkinson's Disease and their carers. The upcoming national Parkinsons Table Tennis Championship, for instance, is set to be a major highlight, providing a platform for participants to showcase their skills and build camaraderie. Additionally, the replication of the retirement home program in other regions will offer more individuals the opportunity to benefit from tailored care and activities designed to improve their well-being.
Looking ahead, Parkinson's ZA aims to introduce new initiatives that address the evolving needs of its community. Plans include expanding rehabilitation services, increasing outreach efforts to underserved areas, and developing more programs that promote physical activity and social engagement. The organization is also exploring collaborations with medical professionals and researchers to integrate the latest advancements in Parkinson's care into their programs.
With unwavering community support and a clear vision for the future, Parkinson's ZA is poised to continue making a profound difference in the lives of those it serves. Together, the community and Parkinson's ZA can continue to build a brighter, more supportive future for everyone affected by Parkinson's Disease.