When the pandemic set in, things took an unexpected turn and many non-governmental organisations were left at their wits end as they struggled to move forward in the face of uncertainty.
After being put on halt for almost two years due to the pandemic, the Perak Parkinson’s Association (PPA) are able to organise events again.
A walkathon titled ‘U Care, U Give and U Walk For Parkinson’s’ which will be held on November 27 at Bandar Seri Botani, Eco Park 1, is the latest initiative and first sponsored community walk.
Event Chairperson Steven Leong said the charity walk would provide additional income for the association. Adding that the organisation only collects a monthly subscription fee of RM2 or RM24 a year. The cost of the programmes conducted at the centre are also borne by the association. Hence, there are insufficient funds to support the centre.
“The yearly expenses of the centre comes up to about RM50,000. Perak Parkinson’s Association runs on donations and fundraising, however, the pandemic has forced us to temporarily withdraw from our fundraising activities.
“The funds from the walkathon would help keep the association on its feet as well as cover the cost of our monthly activities and staff salaries. Besides that, the charity walk is a good opportunity to raise awareness of our services,” he said at a press conference.
As the walk is open to people from all walks of life, anyone is welcome to join. If you want to spend a healthy morning with your friends or family, register yourself for the walk with Julie Loh at 014-3027893 or Chris Chai, 010-2888601 for RM60 per person.
The Perak Parkinson’s Association is a support group of people with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, friends and families based in Ipoh. Founded in 2012 by Samuel Ng, who is a patient himself and a committee of 10 members, PPA is a non-government organisation (NGO). Perak Parkinson’s Association is also a partner of the World Parkinson’s Congress (World Parkinson’s Coalition).
by Gisele Soo
