2017 Parkinson SuperWalk
GeneralThis September, more than 10,000 everyday heroes in communities across the country will lace up their sneakers and walk in the 27th annual Parkinson SuperWalk, bringing hope and encouragement to the more than 100,000 Canadians living with the challenges and stigma of this degenerative brain disease.
Burnbrae Farms is excited to continue our support of Parkinson SuperWalk as a National Sponsor. Together we’re proud to jointly promote overall brain health for people living with Parkinson’s and all Canadians. Funds raised through Parkinson SuperWalk promote positive health outcomes for Canadians throughout their Parkinson’s journey, when they connect with our specialized programs and services. Moreover, they fund research.
The neuroprotective properties of Omega-3 fatty acids
In previous years, Parkinson Canada has funded research exploring the neuroprotective properties of Omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in Burnbrae’s Naturegg Omega-3 , Naturegg Omega-3 Free Run , and Naturegg Omega Plus shelled eggs and Naturegg Omega-3 Plus cracked eggs . Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for a healthy brain. They are needed to maintain the structure brain cells, or neurons, and support normal brain function including neurotransmitter activity. This is why omega-3 fatty acids are associated with better mental health and mood. According to the Canadian Community Health Survey, Canadians are getting less than half the recommended daily requirement of omega-3 fatty acids. Since 1981, the Parkinson Canada Research Program has invested more than $26 million in more than 500 projects and researchers.
Parkinson's Research
One of these dedicated researchers is Dr. Michael Vesia, a post-doctoral fellow at the Krembil Research Institute in Toronto, is applying sophisticated analytical technologies to understand the relationship between particular brain states and bodily actions. By comparing observations for healthy individuals and those suffering from Parkinson’s, he is revealing the details of brain function in a way that could improve the diagnosis and treatment of these patients.
Dr. Vesia received a two year Basic Research Fellowship from the Parkinson Canada Research Program to study the differences between the brains of people living with Parkinson’s and those who are not. Ultimately, understanding these differences could lead to a way to improve the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s. Says Vesia, who joined more than 800 participants at Parkinson SuperWalk Toronto last year, “By studying how these circuits [in someone’s brain] are modulated, we can investigate how different therapies may affect these circuits.”
Hear a message from Dr. Vesia on the importance of funding this type of research and register to join Burnbrae Farms in promoting good brain health at http://donate.parkinson.ca/vesia .