Steph and her mum, Li, are inviting Novocastrians to join them on a 5km walk from Queens Wharf to Bar Beach Bowling Club, with proceeds going to Shake It Up Australia, a foundation dedicated to funding Parkinson’s research.
The event, dubbed Good Vibrations, aims to bring people together to honour those living with the disease and highlight the often-overlooked mental health challenges that accompany it.
The walk holds deeply personal significance for the pair. Just under three years ago, Li was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease—a life-altering moment that sent shockwaves through their family.
Known to her loved ones as “the life of the party” and “always the best dressed,” Li’s vibrant personality hasn’t dimmed, but she has faced the confronting reality of a diagnosis that brings with it fear, uncertainty, and grief for the life she once imagined.
One of the key goals of Good Vibrations is to shine a light on the lesser-known symptoms of Parkinson’s, particularly depression and anxiety.
These challenges, caused by chemical changes in the brain, are often overshadowed by the more visible physical symptoms of the disease.
Steph hopes the event will not only raise funds but spark conversations and build a stronger sense of understanding and empathy within the community.
The walk kicks off at 10 am at Queens Wharf Car Park this Sunday, 13 April 2025 and will wind along the coast to Bar Beach Bowling Club, wrapping up by 11:30 am. You can register for the walk here or donate to Shake It Up via shakeitup.org.au.
