The problem with Parkinson’s…….
As the disease progresses we will gradually lose mobility resulting in less freedom, quality of life and opportunity to stay fit.
The traditional wheelchair was designed for indoor use and not practical for outdoors and further restricted People with Parkinson’s (PWP). The loss of freedom to move about can have an impact on mental health as well physical health.
The GRIT Freedom Chair
This chair has combined the best parts of a mountain bike and a standard chair to enhance the mobility and freedom of people with challenges to be active even outdoors in all 4 seasons. It enables upper body exercising in any outdoor conditions including on trails, parks, beaches and even snow.
Goals & Fundraising Update: January 15, 2021
Project Goals
• To purchase 2 GRIT Freedom Chairs and other hiking equipment for the Chapter members and others to use. Get those stranded at home in the fresh air on a trail.
• To be accessible to more members who are mobility limited or close to that stage.
• For a companion chair to accompany the PWP on trail rides etc. and for public demos.
• Cost of Project $15,000.00. $5,000.00 raised with $10,000 remaining to raise.
The increase is due to additional required safety equipment.
• The 1st GRIT chair was purchased Dec. 15th for $5195.49.
A New Chair for Brennan
Brennan was our first choice to have the chair due to his very aggressive Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD). He had lost the ability to walk but still had strength in his arms. This chair allowed him to be self-propelled for the first time in over 6 months.
Comments made by Brennan’s PSW.
Wow! The Grit chair is amazing. We went through deep snow with little problem. It is easy to push, maneuver by the Brennan and get a good pace going with the pumping action of the handles. Good for outside in most conditions and will go through grass, trails, beach sand or snow. Roll on Summer!
Krystyna Nelson
Next Steps: Raise Additional Funds
Additional funds are needed to get a second chair to accommodate larger individuals and allow for more public demos etc. We are looking to raise $10,000.00 in the next 2 months for another chair and purchase additional equipment to allow for safe winter and summer hiking trips.
How can you donate?
Write a cheque payable to Parkinson’s Peterborough Chapter and mail to:
Joe van Koeverden
313 Blacksmith Way
Peterborough, ON, K9L 0B5
E-transfer to joevank53@gmail.com and your donation will be forwarded.
Either way you will get a tax-deductible receipt from Parkinson Canada once funds are deposited.
