Communication from the Chief Executive Officer
Announcing the Summer Edition of Stand by Me: Advocating for Enhanced Parkinson's Services in Regional and Rural New South Wales
Greetings to our community as we present the Summer edition of Stand by Me. This publication remains dedicated to keeping you informed about our ongoing advocacy campaigns, with a primary focus on securing more government funding for essential services for those living with Parkinson's, particularly in regional and rural areas.
As hinted in our Spring edition, we have been relentless in our endeavors to engage with key NSW government ministers and their shadow counterparts. This proactive approach is crucial, considering a forthcoming election in early 2023, and our desire to visibly demonstrate our commitment to securing government funding.
Our relentless advocacy has borne fruit, as we secured a substantial capacity-building grant in fiscal 2021-22. Our ambition now is to build upon this success with additional grants in 2023, specifically targeting our 1800 HealthLine— the access point to our assortment of services for the NSW Parkinson's community.
As the festive season approaches, we extend heartfelt wishes for a safe, joyous Christmas, New Year, and summer holiday season. We hope you are able to spend this time with your loved ones and friends, and perhaps find opportunities for travel.
For those planning to travel, you may find the ensuing stories in this edition of Stand by Me valuable— they offer practical advice on travel preparations for individuals with Parkinson's, managing medications, and sustaining a healthy exercise regimen while away from home.
Enjoy your reading, and we wish you a wonderful Festive Season.
Jo-Anne Reeves
Chief Executive Officer
In considering broader contexts, national advocacy and awareness efforts, such as the "I am more than my Parkinson's" initiative by Parkinson's Australia, strive to raise awareness and support those affected by Parkinson's across Australia, including regional and rural areas. Additionally, organizations like Shake It Up Australia are actively involved in funding research to advance Parkinson's treatment and care, which indirectly benefits all Australians, including rural NSW.
However, these initiatives, while relevant, do not provide specific details regarding advocacy campaigns in New South Wales specifically, leading up to the 2023 election.
This edition of Stand by Me includes articles discussing travel tips for individuals with Parkinson's, helping you plan your holidays. We also highlight the importance of mental health and wellness, encouraging a balance between science, lifestyle, and health-and-wellness practices. As we look forward to 2023, our ongoing advocacy efforts in New South Wales focus on securing additional funding for Parkinson's services in regional and rural areas, and we remain committed to this mission.
