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History
The 2nd Annual Lows in Motion Parkinson's Fundraiser was held at the Manhattan Ballroom. Displayed, were over 100 items in the silent auction, live auction, raffle and door prizes. We were entertained by three unbelievable bands-Nokyo, Farideh and the Pixie Chix – who donated their talent and time for the evening. They were amazing! Donations came in from all directions for this event. There were items donated for our silent auction, cash donated for the operations of the event, and pledges to the Parkinson Society Saskatchewan. This year's donations, added to last year's total of $23,000 helped us exceed the $50,000 mark. This is an accomplishment that we should all be very proud of! We could not achieve this without our great supporters!
However, this monetary figure was not what completely defined success to us. We had achieved our goal of bringing the community together in an effort to create awareness of the debilitating disease of Parkinson's. It is this community effort that has given us our slogan of "Leading the charge against Parkinson's. United we will conquer."
Why Was Lows in Motion Started?
By the time I was born my paternal grandfather had been diagnosed with Parkinson's. By the time I was old enough to remember him the disease had escalated to the latter stages, and sadly, the man I grew to know and love was no longer the man he used to be. According to those who knew my grandfather prior to the disease, Grandpa was a man of integrity and compassion who had proudly contributed to the war effort, and devoted his life to family and the community, and was just an all-around great guy.
3 years ago my father was similarly diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 48. For 3 years our family has had the displeasure of witnessing how the progressive aspects of this disease has taken a toll on Dad both physically and cognitively at a rate far more worrisome than had afflicted my grandfather. Seeing Dad experience the progressive stages of the disease at such a young age inspired me to enquire about which initiatives and causes were already in place that my family, friends and that I could support. It seemed this was the least I could do in lieu of my grandfather's memory, and to support my Dad in an effort to reduce the magnitude this affliction has had on him and others.
Travis Low
Chair, Lows in Motion Parkinson's fundraiser
