An interview with Jack Waller from the Parkinson Society Nova Scotia on October 6, 2023 by George Ackerman, Ph.D, J.D.
Please tell me a little about your background.
I am a retired civil servant and the care partner for my husband Ken who is in his 13th year with Parkinson’s.
We launched a non-profit for Parkinson’s, care partners and families 5 years ago in Nova Scotia. We are the voice for Parkinson’s in Nova Scotia.
Our initial meeting of several couples we became aware of a need to go forward. We have visited several nursing homes and continue to participate in community events.
Can you tell me more about your advocacy?
We endeavor to engage the government to join our journey. I am a Canadian Ambassador for the Davis Phinney Foundation. We liaise with those on the journey.
Parkinson Society Nova Scotia’ is a registered non-profit in Nova Scotia. We provide education, advocacy, resources, and support to those impacted by Parkinson’s, care partners and families.
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are committed to sharing reliable information and raising funds for programs and research.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
Hands on and liaising with those on the same journey. We recognize the need to raise awareness and advocate for P’s, care partners and families
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
Support and providing resources on the journey.
Visit the memorial wall at https://www.parkinsonsocietynovascotia.com/275-2/
What type of training and how long are the programs?
We were neophytes when we started, Our outreach continues as we glean more information and insights.
What effect can your advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
They are not alone and we continue to meet one and one with P’s and care partners
What would you like to see as a future goal for your advocacy?
Engagement with government as we journey together.
What events do you participate in?
We have done fundraisers and are working on Parkinson’s Aware week this coming April
How does your advocacy also assist the caregivers?
They are an integral component of the journey
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
https://www.parkinsonsocietynovascotia.com
To sign up for the newsletter go to https://www.parkinsonsocietynovascotia.com/newsletter/
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Taking an active role for change
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Engage policymakers in the process.