The supportive community behind the Sunflower Rev It Up for Parkinson's event is not deterred by COVID-19. This year's run, walk, and bike event can be completed anywhere and will continue to raise funds to support research and educational efforts at the James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders at the University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute.
Now a virtual event, participants in Sunflower Rev It Up for Parkinson's can track their progress on a downloadable personal tracker through Sept. 11. Donations will be accepted through Dec. 31, 2020.
"While we can't be together physically, we can be together in spirit and through a common goal," says Kathleen Krumme, volunteer and event founder. "Unfortunately, Parkinson's doesn't ever 'go virtual' and raising funds to support research and educational efforts is more important than ever."
Proceeds from the event also provide a free symposium for patients and caregivers impacted by Parkinson's disease. This event draws 700 participants annually.
Krumme launched Sunflower Rev It Up for Parkinson's in 2014 when her father was in the early stages of the disease. Now a tight-knit community, Krumme says this year teams are coming up with creative online fundraising ideas, like the new Sunflower Rev It Up Devou Hill Climb Challenge (presented by Montgomery Cyclery and Queen City Wheels) for cyclists. Prizes will be awarded to the winners and a Facebook Live celebration will be held on Sept. 12.
Unique online video learning opportunities will be held for registered participants.
Featured image: Davis Phinney of the Davis Phinney Foundation. Photo/Provided by Sunflower Rev It Up for Parkinson's
