The Purpose:

To raise money and awareness for the fight against Parkinson’s Research.

Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease that affects over 100,000 Canadians. Physical motion is normally controlled by dopamine, a chemical that carries signals between the nerves in the brain. When the dopamine producing cells die the symptoms of Parkinson’s appear. Currently there is no cure.

The Inspiration:

"Stay true to your friends ‘cause they'll be the ones to save you in the end". These are the words my Grandfather lived by and taught me early on. In his life he was my inspiration and now he is my motivation for furthering the cause of finding a cure for Parkinson’s.

My grandfather, John, was diagnosed with Parkinson's over 20 years ago. He battled it nobly and courageously even as dementia also started to take hold. As I watched my truest friend slipping away I was inspired to do what I can to find a cure for this debilitating disease affecting so many Canadians. My hope is that someday soon no one will have to suffer the effects of living with Parkinson's.

I run, cycle, and live life outdoors for those who can’t due to the debilitating disease of Parkinson’s. Stay true to your friends and help in this fight against Parkinson’s.

- Matt Okell

Live Life Outdoors

In Support of the Michael J. Fox Foundation and Parkinson Society Canada