CHICAGO – Hundreds of people impacted by Parkinson’s disease met at Soldier Field Saturday morning for Moving Day Chicago, taking steps to find a cure for the disease.
Saturday morning was the perfect day to take a walk along the lake for an excellent cause.
“We’re here with hope. It’s a really hopeful atmosphere and we’re here with hope that there are things we can do, and we can be empowered to slow down and treat this disease in a meaningful way today,” said Dr. Danny Bega, a movement disorder neurologist with Northwestern Medicine.
About 2,000 people split into 86 groups came together for the 13th annual Moving Day Chicago, organized by the Parkinson’s Foundation.
“This event really not only brings people together and raises critical awareness about Parkinson’s, which is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the country, but it also raises critical funds to support the mission work of the Parkinson’s Foundation,” said Allison Liefer, regional director for the Parkinson Foundation’s Midwest Branch.
While there isn’t a cure for Parkinson’s yet, doctors said regular movement can help slow down the progression of the disease.
“What we recommend for people with Parkinson’s is some aerobic exercise, some strength building exercise and some balance exercise,” Bega said. “It’s really important to have a combination of things you enjoy doing.”