Paddle for Parkinson's

The Paddle for Parkinson's

The aim is to raise funds for research for Parkinson’s disease by gaining donations and sponsorship for Wade James to paddle from Bundaberg to the Gold Coast approx 420klm over a period of four days.

Wade anticipates raising in excess of $250,000 to support the much needed research into finding a cure to help those suffering from this very cruel disease.

• 80% of the funds raised will be donated to the Parkinson's Queensland Project at Griffith University.
• 20% of the funds raised will be donated to Parkinson's Queensland Incorporation for the administration of this activity and for general use in its other operational activities as decided by the management committee.

All funds raised will be accounted for in accordance with Parkinson's Queensland's Policy and Procedures. Proceeds and relevant financial records will be forwarded within eight weeks of completion of the event.

Click here to view the sponsorship proposal (PDF)

Highlights

Our fundraising Celebration Auction Dinner on Friday 5th of October was a huge success, as raised approx $70,000 bringing our total to a HUGE $310,000 (less expenses)

A cheque will be forwarded at the end of the month to Parkinson's Queensland.

A big thankyou to everyone who contibuted to our success and attended the evening.

Donations for the Paddle for Parkinsons will continue to be welcomed until Sunday 21st of October 2007.

Wade's Jourmey almost ended in disaster after becoming lost and suffering severe lacerations crossing an oyster field on Friday night.
READ MORE About WADE'S PAINFUL ENCOUNTER in his Diary Entries - http://www.thepaddleforparkinsons.com.au/wades-diary.php

After his ordeal, Wade was found and treated for his lacerations at Dunwich Hospital, North Stradbroke Island. He would like to THANK the following people and organisations for their help & support:-
> VMR (Volunteer Marine Rescue) Raby Bay
> Ivan Buldo from QLD Ambulance Service
> Registered Nurse, Michelle Nothling
> Queensland Police Service Officers, Grant Noonan, Ban Harm, Tom Covener.

While on his journey, Wade has had the help, advice and encouragement as well as top food from a wonderful group of supporters. These include the following - Les Hancock and Ron Simpson who have driven the support boats- Ross Gray's boat from Bundaberg to Hervey Bay and Ron Simpson's boat from Hervey Bay to the Gold Coast. Les and Ron have done the navigation,charted and recorded the trip while guiding Wade in the right direction and advising him on weather conditions etc. They have also done a wonderful job of looking after the food for Wade and all on board. Martyn Sonia who has driven the whole distance on a jet ski, keeping an eye on Wade and making sure he is going in the right direction. Martyn has been there to hand any food/drink etc. to Wade when needed and has done a truly wonderful job of "go-between" the boat and paddler. Martyn's job has not been easy,but he has done it with great care of one who knows and respects the ocean.We are sure upon his return to land after 5 long and often rough days on his jet-ski that it might take him a while to get his land legs again. Wayne Baldry, an ex Bundaberg Surf Club Ski paddler has also shown great willingness to help a mate. Wayne has paddled beside Wade for a few hours each day and has helped with lots of encouragement and knowledge when Wade has struggled with exhaustion. This is an adventure that neither will ever forget. Wayne also has a knowledge of the ocean that has helped in decision making throughout the trip. Jamie Hanson is the one who has been there to help in any way at any time. He also is the chief photographer and media man while on the boat. Jamie has a knack of making people feel good and I am sure after this trip he would have learnt even more in dealing with people in challenging situations.Wade's cousin, Kellie Honan made a special trip to give massages to Wade at Rainbow Beach and Mooloolaba. You can imagine how much this was appreciated. Grahame Ramsey who offered all 9 in the support group accommodation at his beautiful house at Rainbow Beach. He also cooked a tasty barbeque which everyone enjoyed. Grahame kindly ferried different ones to the main boat. Nothing was too much trouble. A great stop was had by all.

CREDIT CARD DONATIONS
If you don't feel comfortable donating on- line using your credit card, please call Shannon on 07 5589 2802 and we will process your credit card payment over the phone.

WANTED- Items suitable for the auction celebration dinner.
Please email thepaddleforparkinsons@rushclothing.com.au

Wade's Ski proudly provided by Red 7.