An interview with Janine Parkinson from Parkinson’s Canada on July 15, 2023 by George Ackerman, Ph.D, J.D.
Biography
Janine Parkinson is an award-winning writer, athlete, and Parkinson’s advocate. She has excelled in the sports arena as a Team Canada representative in Filipino Martial Arts and amateur boxing champion. Alongside her work as a producer, writer, and children’s book author, Janine draws inspiration from her rescue dog Lenny. With a strong commitment to inclusion, Janine uses her platform to champion diversity and raise awareness.
Chicken and Cat Productions
Producer/Writer/ Advocate
Parkinson’s Canada
Please tell me a little about your background.
My background includes a diverse range of experiences that have shaped my journey and involvement with awareness. I initially worked as a stunt performer, which exposed me to the exhilaration and challenges of the film and television industry. However, after a close friend experienced serious head trauma, my perspective shifted, and I became deeply interested in understanding the complexities of the brain and neuroscience.
I transitioned into the field of copywriting and writing for health and sciences. Through my work, I aim to communicate complex concepts in an accessible manner, promoting awareness and understanding. Additionally, I ventured into producing and creating films that focus on inclusivity and diversity.
Parkinson’s Canada
People living with Parkinson’s are at the center of everything we do at Parkinson Canada. From diagnosis to discovery. You can count on us to be there at every step of your Parkinson’s journey. We provide education and services to support you, your family, and your health team, online, by telephone and in person.
We advocate with federal, provincial, and territorial governments on issues that matter to the Parkinson’s community in Canada. The Parkinson Canada Research Program funds innovative research to search for better treatments and a cure. Parkinson Canada is an Imagine Canada accredited organization.
Our mission
To transform the lives of People Living with Parkinson’s. We do this through:
Research leading to the end of Parkinson’s.
Advocacy bringing the voices of Parkinson’s to the forefront.
Support helping people living with Parkinson’s live well through education.
Our values
As we carry out our mission and strive to achieve our goals, we will always be true to our core values. We believe in being:
Bold
By embracing new ideas and confidently taking action.
Compassionate
By striving always to walk in the shoes of those we serve.
Collaborative
By working cooperatively with all stakeholders so that together we can achieve more.
Trustworthy
By keeping our word and always doing what we promise.
See https://www.parkinson.ca/about-us/our-mission-and-vision/
Can you tell me more about your advocacy?
As an advocate, I focus on promoting understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals with unique perspectives. Drawing from my personal journey of being high-functioning and having the last name Parkinson, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to utilize my talents and platform to make a positive impact.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My involvement with Parkinson Canada exposed me to incredible teams and inspiring stories from the Parkinson’s community. One common theme I noticed was the desire for patients to hear from various parties involved in research and support. This motivated me to amplify their voices and share their messages with a wider audience. Through my work, I aim to increase understanding, generate support, and foster hope for a cure.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s awareness have when working with you?
When working with individuals with Parkinson’s, their goal is to be heard and have their voices valued. They find comfort and satisfaction in knowing that someone is actively listening to their experiences and perspectives. I am dedicated to amplifying their stories and advocating for them using my skills and expertise.
What effect can your advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s awareness?
It is my aim is to validate, empower, and support individuals with Parkinson’s through advocacy.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your advocacy?
I aspire to witness a greater unity and amplification of voices within the Parkinson’s community. I envision a future where stories of people with Parkinson’s are widely shared and understood, breaking down stigmas and fostering empathy. The portrayal of characters like a therapist with Parkinson’s in Harrison Ford’s “Shrinking” exemplifies the progress we are making in raising awareness. I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive society.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
The best way to contact me is through my website www.chickenandcat.com.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson community, what would it be?
You are not defined by your condition, but rather by the strength and resilience with which you navigate life’s challenges.