Paul Bernard, a classical guitarist and founder of the group Este Mundo, says life has changed drastically.
“It has been an adventure, for sure. It’s been difficult,’’ the Charlottetown resident told The Guardian in an interview on Wednesday.
“I can’t play guitar anymore . . . my balance is terrible and my voice is getting low and my co-ordination is not good. I get the shakes.’’
The P.E.I. chapter of Parkinson’s Canada is hosting its annual SuperWalks for Parkinson’s disease at two locations again this year.
The first will be held in O’Leary at Centennial Park on Saturday while another walk will be held in Charlottetown at HMCS Queen Charlotte on Sunday. Registration for both events takes place at 1 p.m. with the walks commencing at 2 p.m.
Bernard is hoping by sharing his story there might be a few more feet pounding the pavement this weekend.
“I’d like people to be aware that Parkinson’s is a real disease that affects a lot more people than you think it does. I hope people come out and show their support for us.’’
Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease that involves the loss of cells in the part of the brain that produces dopamine. Dopamine acts as a messenger between the brain cells that control movement. A depletion of dopamine can cause tremors and other motor symptoms.
About 8,400 people are living with Parkinson’s throughout the Maritimes, 500 of those living in P.E.I.
While Bernard can’t play guitar anymore, he tries to remain as active as he can.
Bernard said the initial diagnosis was shocking.
“I didn’t believe it at first. I knew my foot was starting to tap but that’s about it and, as time went on, the symptoms became more and more pronounced.’’
He takes part in a singing class that helps his voice a bit but it’s as much about the camaraderie the class provides.
Bernard also cycles. His balance on the bike is actually very good.
“I can balance on a bike easily. Hardest part is getting on and off it. I have a step-through bike so that makes it easy for me,’’ he said, describing a bicycle especially made so the user doesn’t have to climb over to get on.
For pledge sheets or registration forms visit www.parkinsonsuperwalk.ca. For more information, call the event co-ordinator Emma Higginbotham at 902-892-9271, email her at [email protected] or drop by the office at 81 Prince St. in Charlottetown.
