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Daughter pays it forward

Late father's battle with Parkinson's inspires action
Daughter pays it forward

The Parkinson Society B.C. slogan, "You are not alone. We can help," resonates strongly with Mischa Watt.

"I believe that people with Parkinson's can feel separated from the rest of the healthier population. They are slow and they have a different look - I call it 'the face of Parkinson's.' If the (society) became more well-known it would be much more helpful to those suffering from Parkinson's or those who have family or friends who are suffering. Awareness of the disease is key and helping others is what the society is there for," she says.

The 35-year-old North Vancouver mother of two lost her father, Pat Gallaher, at age 65, in February to the disease. Gallaher, known in the local business community for serving as the proprietor of Edgemont Village's BC Playthings, was an active member of the Parkinson's community, and served on the society's board of directors from 2006 until the time of his passing.

In tribute to her father, as well as to raise awareness of the disease, Watt is participating in the society's The Parkinson's Movement campaign. The initiative promotes the benefits of exercise in managing the symptoms of Parkinson's. While no cure exists, exercise is believed to protect the brain and have an immediate positive impact on mood and movement.

During the month of April, which is Parkinson's Awareness Month in B.C., Watt has committed to a fitness goal and is running and walking more, while raising funds for the society's programs and services for those with Parkinson's.

To support Watt's fundraising efforts, visit bit.ly/MischaWatt-TPM2015.

parkinson.bc.ca