VANCOUVER—CUPE 825 president Maria Wahl and her team of walkers have once again topped a previous record for fundraising in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.
At this year’s annual walk for Parkinson’s held on Sunday (August 30) at Stanley Park, Wahl’s group totalled $18,160.00 in pledges. In six years, Wahl, Port Moody’s bylaw coordinator, has raised $63,000 to fight the disease she has lived with for eight years.
At the walk ceremonies on Sunday, Wahl was formally recognized for her efforts over the years with an onstage presentation of flowers and a certificate by the Parkinson Society British Columbia.
Wahl—who almost took a break from the walk this year until some spirited protests from her grandchildren changed her mind—said that her energy for fundraising over the years has been largely due to the support of fellow union members.
“A majority of the money we have raised has come from CUPE members,” she said.
“I can’t thank them enough for this support. The battle against Parkinson’s is winnable, and my sisters and brothers will all share in that victory.”