For David Monk, his Parkinson’s diagnosis only came after an acquaintance remarked on his unusual gait.

“She noticed my foot was dragging slightly as I walked and told my wife that I’d either had a stroke or that I had Parkinson’s,” said the 76-year-old Pyes Pā resident.

“I continued teaching at the time but made sure it wasn’t obvious. People expect you to be shaking but a lot of people don’t have a tremor and that’s why it can be kept hidden.”

Twenty years later, Monk is an organiser of the Mount Maunganui Red Tulip Walk For Parkinson’s from 10am, on Sunday, April 6. Participants contribute $25 to Parkinson’s New Zealand Charitable Trust and walk the base track of the Mount.

“The funds will go towards our charitable service which includes Parkinson’s educators who provide information, education, and support,” said Helen Carter from Parkinson’s NZ. “Alongside home visits, referrals, support groups, and seminars, we also offer social activities and exercise classes for people with Parkinson’s in the Bay of Plenty.”

No cure

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world, according to PNZ.

“Although there is currently no cure, treatment and support are available,” said Carter. “We estimate there are 13,000 New Zealanders currently living with Parkinson’s, but numbers are expected to grow significantly.”

The most common symptoms are tremors, stiffness and slowness of movement but also the less obvious depression, anxiety and apathy.

“When someone notices a tremor, slower movement or a foot dragging, for instance, they should make an appointment with a GP who may refer them to a neurologist,” said Carter. “The sooner a person gets diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin.

“Parkinson’s is a long-term progressive neurological condition, which means that over time symptoms may become more debilitating.”

Daily unsung heroes

Monk also acknowledges the daily unsung heroes that surround those with the disease.

“When dealing with the condition, the impact on the partners, wives and family who have to care for the person with Parkinson’s is often forgotten,” he said.

“The task they take on, as with other illnesses to care for, they sacrifice so much to make the loved one’s life better is tremendous.”

For further support or information, go to: www.parkinsons.org.nz or call 0800 473 4636.

The Mount Maunganui Red Tulip Walk For Parkinson’s starts at Salisbury Wharf, Pilot Bay from 10am Sunday, April 6. Buy tickets via the QR code or online at: https://events.humanitix.com/mount-maunganui-red-tulip-walk-for-parkinsons-2025