But don’t just take our word for how important donations are, hear it from one of our community members.

Drew has been an involved member of the Fight Parkinson’s community for many years.

A Narungga man, he has been living with Parkinson’s for over a decade and kindly shared his story with the Fight Parkinson’s community this tax season.

His story of finding his voice since diagnosis mobilised the Fight Parkinson’s community and we are incredibly humbled to say his story has raised more than $171,000.

Drew’s dedication to raising awareness of the condition and for championing the voices of marginalised communities across the country is to be admired.

Over the years Drew has become a popular member of the Parkinson’s community and has given his thanks to those who have donated to ensure Fight Parkinson’s can continue to help people like him.

“Fight Parkinson’s helps provide support around each of the things that I’m needing support with,” Drew said.

“That can be about advice, having yarns and conversations – not just with Fight Parkinson’s but with other people living with Parkinson’s.”

Drew hopes that by sharing his story other members of the Parkinson’s community will see that their lives don’t stop at diagnosis.

He also took time to remind people that while difficult at times, the journey is one that isn’t always gloom.

“This journey is not alone, it is not a sole journey, it’s not something you should fight on your own,” he said.

“Thankfully it is a long journey, and there are things to learn along the way. There are some things you might find confronting with Parkinson’s but it’s not the end of the world.

“It’s a matter of grasping the positives and going with what you like and trying as best you can to fight the things that are more difficult to fight.”

Meeting on Wathaurong Country, near Geelong, Victoria, Drew extended his appreciation to everyone who donated.

He also called for Mob to yarn together about their health, Parkinson’s, and any symptoms they’re experiencing.

“I will take this opportunity on Country to say thank you to Fight Parkinson’s and to the wider Fight Parkinson’s community for making the donations that you have.

“It’s important to recognise those donations raise funding for fighting Parkinson’s, for sharing awareness.”

No one should have to face Parkinson’s alone and your support ensures no one will.

Fight Parkinson’s director of fundraising Sharon Roux thanked Drew for his contribution to this year’s tax appeal.

She reiterated the impact donations have on ensuring no one faces Parkinson’s alone.

“Every single cent makes a difference and on behalf of the community Id’ like to say thank you,” Sharon said.

Thanks to your generosity, Fight Parkinson’s can continue to help people just like him find the support and guidance they need to live positively with Parkinson’s.

If you haven’t donated yet, it’s not too late. Fight Parkinson’s welcomes donations of any size year-round.

Donations over $2 are tax deductible.