Parkinson's Moving Day 2014; What It Means To Me

Spring is around the corner. Get ready for the start of the charity walk/run season. 5k's, half-marathons and even full marathons all trying to raise money and awareness for specific charities.

Moving Day is what the National Parkinson's Disease Foundation calls their events. Last years 5k, in Chicago, raised more than $350,000. That was $100,000 more than their goal.

This years event will again be in October and that $350K is now the goal.

Yesterday on the NPDF's Facebook page, they asked the question: what does Moving Day mean to you? It's pretty complex. There are a lot of answers and emotions involved. 

Let's face it, dollars are important in these events. My recommendation is not to worry about that. If you want to raise money, let someone in your circle put together a team and that frees you up to take in the atmosphere of the event.

Visit the booths. Pick up brochures. Of course people are trying to sell their products, but you never know what you'll need down the line. Become informed!!

I had two things I wanted to accomplish at last years walk. One professional, one personal.

I obviously have a blog about this topic. This was a great place to make contacts. At the very least I found people that can answer questions when I need info for a story. Plus, maybe there would be someone there who might want me to write an article (hint). I'd even accept money!! (another hint)

Now that I'm done pimping myself, here's the long awaited answer to the question. Moving Day was one of the most emotional days of my life. A top 5 experience.

When you're diagnosed with something like PD, you'll get a lot of support from family and friends. It's wonderful when that happens but even with that, you're really on your own. It's difficult to find someone that can relate to what you are going through.

Take the walk slowly. Talk with everyone. Their will be stories from friends, families, caretakers and most importantly Parkinson's patients. I guarantee you'll be emotional but it'll feel good. If that's what you take away from any charity event, that makes it worth your time and more.

Moving Day gives you the opportunity to connect. Instead of being on an island, you become part of a community.