A South Cariboo man is testing the waters for interest in forming a local support group for people living with Parkinson's disease, and their families.
Philip Konrad says he currently attends a support group in Kamloops, but he and another area man, Uli Junker, would like to start one locally.
"I kind of grabbed the ball to run with it. I'm also getting in contact with Parkinson Society British Columbia [PSBC] and I expect they are going to give us a lot of info on how to organize and things like that."
Once they have enough people to start, Junker will try to arrange for a room to hold monthly meetings at no cost, as they currently have no budget to cover expenses, he explains.
"At the one in Kamloops, they try to get professional speakers in every month and you learn a lot about the illness."
While dealing with Parkinson’s disease is unique to every individual who has the disease, hearing what others have experienced – and what worked or didn't work for them – can offer significant help, he explains.
In Kamloops, the group has many spouses who also attend.
"Let's face it, you both live with it. My wife probably asks more questions than I do."
He notes the Kamloops group has an annual membership fee of $15, but he feels a local one could get going without funds if they can find a space to meet.
Anyone interested is encouraged to call Philip Konrad at 250-395-3925.
The PSBC website states many people with Parkinson's disease go on to live a normal life span and enjoy many years of activities. It notes many new developments, such as recent medication enhancements, make positive differences in the lives of people living with Parkinson's disease.
For more information, visit www.parkinson.bc.ca.