Gary Cowlishaw

I'm Stepping Up for Parkinson's this May!

My Activity Tracking

36.2
Hours

My target 19 Hours

I am Stepping up for Parkinson's this May.

This May 2025 I will be Stepping up for Parkinson's doing a 6am yoga class every day to raise awareness and fundraising to enable more specialist services. 

If on an iphone scroll down to see my daily blog and photos which I will update every day. 

Please consider a donation and with your generous support Parkinson's NSW will continue its mission to enhance the quality of life for people living with Parkinson's, their carers and families.

- Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder

-  Another person is diagnosed every 40 minutes and there are  219,000 Australians living with Parkinson's

- 18%  are of working age and there is no cure 

Thank you. 

My Fundraising

AMOUNT RAISED

$

TARGET

$2,250

$0 to target

My Activity

MINUTES ACTIVE

TOTAL MINUTES/TARGET

1,140

0 minutes to target

My Achievements

Updated Profile Image

First Donation Received

Shared My Page

Super Stepper

Halfway to Fundraising Goal

Reached Goal

My Updates

Day 31 of 6am yoga

Saturday 31st May
Step Up completed - 31 days of 6am yoga every day in May 

Together we have raised over $2,300 which will fund a neurological nurse in the community for 2 or 3 days 

Its not too late to donate - please consider supporting this worthy cause as every $ makes a difference. - one nurse helps hundreds of people impacted by Parkinson's every year.
Another 1,147 people have been newly diagnosed since I started this challenge - that's one every 40 minutes or 37 every day in Australia alone.   Please donate if you are able to. 
Thank you everybody for your wonderful support. 

Day 30 of 6am yoga

Friday 30th May
With your help I have raised $2,150 so far...Did you know donations to Parkinson's NSW enable education for people working in allied health, age care , exercise physiology and those newly diagnosed. Every $ makes a difference. 

There are x3 online learning modules, all accredited and endorsed by academics and peer reviewed - and funded by donations from people like you.

Module 1 - Introduction to Parkinson's
Module 2. - Best care practices for Parkinson's
Module 3. Optimising exercise programs for people with Parkinson's  
 

Day 29 of 6am yoga

Thursday 29th May
Dark and cold again today when I left home at 5.45am  - full cloud cover so no sunlight at 6.48am sunrise either (during class).

As you will know from this blog, there is no cure for Parkinson's disease so a Parkinson's diagnosis can take you to a lonely place.  You can help people who are newly diagnosed (there is one every 40 minutes in Australia) by making a donation to my Step Up for Parkinson's fundraiser. 
Thank you for helping to deliver better health outcomes. 

Day 28 of 6am yoga

Wednesday 28th May
Dark and cold at 5.45am today then a stunning sunrise and blue sky

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, coordination, and quality of life. This condition impacts tens of thousands of Australians and their families, bringing unique challenges that require understanding, support, and care.

Parkinson’s disease is characterised by symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, and balance difficulties, often leading to challenges in daily living. It affects not only physical health but also emotional well-being, requiring comprehensive support. In Australia, research, awareness, and community support are vital to improving the lives of those with PD and advancing treatments.  

Day 27 of 6am yoga

Tuesday 27th May
Thanks to the bright and early Tuesday crew who braved the dark and the cold pre 6am this morning - including our teacher Lou who rides to class come rain or cold. 
 
Parkinson's disease is neuro degenerative and there is no known cause for the development of Parkinson's however these are thought to be some of the contributing factors: 
Ageing
Genetics
Infections
Environmental factors
Pesticides & Toxins
Drugs/Medications
more details here :  https://www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au/what-is-parkinsons/ or call a neurological expert at Parkinson's NSW 1800 644 189 . This fundraiser enables this service. 

Day 26 of 6am yoga

Monday 26th May
what is PArkinson;s 

Parkinson’s is a movement and mood disorder typically presenting with symptoms such as slowness of movement, muscle rigidity, instability, tremor, depression and anxiety.

The number of people living with Parkinson’s in Australia may range from 84,000 to 212,000 (0.85% of population)*.

A diagnosis can occur at any age with the most common age of diagnosis being 65.

10% of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s are under the age of 45.

18% of people living with Parkinson’s are of working age i.e under 65 (this includes people diagnosed under 45).

Your donation enables Parkinson's NSW to continue its work to help people impacted by Parkinson's disease. 

Day 25 of 6am yoga every day in May

Sunday 25th May
Parkinson's disease is degenerative and there is no cure 

Caring for someone iwth Parkinson's..

Parkinson’s disease, like any chronic disease, affects families as well as individuals.

Close family members often take on the role of caregiver as the disease progresses and, in many ways, are as constrained as the person with Parkinson’s disease. Carers can find themselves in a role that may increasingly isolate them from work, family and social activities as they dedicate themselves to care giving. While they may take on the role willingly, the fact is they too have suffered significant loss in terms of opportunities and the future they may have planned.

Carers need factual, credible information and support as much as the person afflicted by Parkinson’s disease. They need someone to talk to about their feelings as much as they might need practical advice. Caring appropriately for someone doesn’t always come naturally and carers may need to learn new skills. Communication and negotiation skills are particularly important in order to balance the needs of both carer and the person with Parkinson’s disease. Carers also need to look after their own health by getting enough sleep and exercise and prioritising some time for themselves.

Parkinson’s NSW can help with all this by providing information about the disease, counselling and access to support groups. Please call the InfoLine on 1800 644 189

Day 24 of 31 days of yoga

Saturday 24th May

A common misconception about Parkinson’s is that it only affects older people. Although the average age of onset is 65, Parkinson’s can affect adults of any age. It is estimated that 1 in 5 people living with Parkinson’s are of working age. This is known as Young Onset Parkinson’s.

The challenges faced by people living with Young Onset Parkinson’s may be different to those diagnosed in retirement age as many younger people are still working, studying, travelling and caring for their family. Being diagnosed with a chronic condition at a young age also presents some unique emotional challenges.

Consideration should be given to involving the allied health team (physiotherapist, occupational therapist and speech and swallowing therapist) even at this early stage. Suggestions for therapy and home exercise programs will form a helpful basis for the years to come.

Parkinson’s is a long-term condition which is not considered life-threatening. With regular medical reviews, appropriate medication regimes, exercise and a positive attitude good quality of life is achievable. Ongoing support of family and friends and maintaining social contact is essential. Parkinson’s NSW InfoLine are here to help and support you. If you have any questions please call them on 1800 644 189.

Please consider a donation for a good cause if you are able.

Day 23 - wettest day of the year

Friday 23rd May
So much - got soaked - did you?

Exercise is absolutely essential...

Walking and balancing exercises, boxing, dancing, treadmill, bike, Tai Chi, yoga, Nordic or pole walking, and swimming are just a few of your options.

Before starting any exercise program, seek assessment by a neurological physiotherapist or exercise physiologist to recommend what levels you need to work at.

For more information regarding the benefits of exercise, types of exercise and exercise opportunities near you, contact the Parkinson’s NSW InfoLine team: 1800 644 189.



Day 22 of 6am yoga

Thursday 22nd May
Dak blustery and not raining (yet!) More heavy rain coming this morning - fortunately yoga is indoors..

Exercise with Parkinson's disease Part 3

Exercise is crucial for living well with Parkinson’s.
Second only to your medication.

It will help you carry out daily activities. Plus, it has the added benefit of keeping your body healthy and potentially free of other issues which may amplify your Parkinson’s.


Day 21 of 6am yoga

Wednesday 21st May
Exercise  Part 2
Regular exercise has been shown to:
      • Reduce muscle stiffness
      • Improve mobility with better posture, balance and gait
      • Decrease depression and anxiety
      • Enhance memory
      • Reduce fatigue
      • Improve constipation
      • Assist with slowed movement (bradykinesia)
      • Improve speech, and reduce swallowing and drooling
      • Improve writing and fine motor skills

  
Please consider a donation to help the 37 people who are newly diagnosed every day 

Day 20 of 6am yoga

Tuesday 20th May
Exercise - part 1 

Exercise is a part of healthy living for everybody. However, for people living with Parkinson’s exercise should not be optional but essential.

Research data shows that exercise is beneficial for people living with Parkinson’s. It is second only to medication in terms of effectiveness in slowing the progression of the disease.

Exercise can benefit people living with Parkinson’s in two ways:

    • Symptom management improves gait, balance, tremor, flexibility, strength and coordination.
    • Slowing disease progression. Practicing movement, improves movement slowing symptoms.

back to 6May with Lou

Tuesday 20th May
This photo 6May'25 with Lou Lemaistre is a reenactment  of the same pose from Step Up @ 8 May'24  

Day 19 of 6am yoga

Monday 19th May
Todays topic is exercise..
Just 45 minutes a week of boxing ....

 causes the neuroplastic changes in the brain and allows you to form new neural connections and slow the loss of neurones to maintain and improve your movements

.Did you know exercise is critical for people living with Parkinson's disease and can help slow the progression of this degenerative neurological condition.
Boxing - Combination of strength, balance and coordination 
FORCE - SPEED - PURPOSE - FOCUS - POWER - CONTROL - OOMPH & GUSTO 

Day 18 - yoga every ay in May

Sunday 18th May
Sunday 18th May - wet windy and cold.  Pretty tired at 7am Sunday after a run of very busy days and full schedules. 

Thanks to supporters like you Parkinson's NSW is able to  run specialist programs to help people living with Parkinson's and their families. I was talking to a lady on Friday who is in Regional NSW (where there are no neurological services) and she was telling me how much she relies on Parkinson's NSW.  As well as being completely worn out as 24/7 carer for her husband they are feeling the financial strain too.  Thanks to you Parkinson's NSW services are available at no cost to the receipient. Thank you for helping to make a difference. 

Day 17 of yoga every day in May as I Step Up

Saturday 17th May
Saturday and I had a lie it, well to 7am and made it to early class to keep up the challenge. Thanks to all who have sponsored me, you are all trully amazing. Every $ goes towards more services for people living with Parkinson's and their families.
For newly diagnosed it is important to focus on getting accurate information about the disease and creating a network of professional care providers and personal supports. For help creating this network and collecting information the PNSW team of neurological experts is available on InfoLine 1800 644 189. Your donation helps fund this service.   

Day 16 of 6am yoga every day in May

Friday 16th May
5.55am pitch black and heavy rain 
Fr people living with Parkinson's emotional change is a challenge - and beyond the persons control.

 Apathy is different from depression. In people living with Parkinson’s apathy is directly related to the lowered dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is not only involved in coordinating movement; it is also involved in controlling the areas of the brain responsible for pleasure and motivation.

In many cases apathy can be more troubling for the family and/or carer, than it is for the person diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Despite the frustrations, family members and carers need to remain patient and be aware that apathy is directly related to the lowered dopamine levels linked with Parkinson’s. This symptom is beyond the person’s control.

Day 15 of 6am yoga- heavy rain and cold

Thursday 15th May
Parkinson's NSW provides much needed specialist services  to people living with Parkinson's all at no cost to the recipient thanks to wonderful people like you.  If you had to rank these Parkinson's specialist services which do you feel would be the most impactful or most important 
- education and training for people working in allied health
- access to a health education help line
- professional Parkinson's counsellors
- expert neurological nurses
- support groups across NSW
- newly diagnosed seminars
all these are funded through kind donations.  

Day 14 of 6am yoga

Wednesday 14th May
Two weeks into this daily challenge - 100% attendance and x17 days to go

Anxiety and depression are estimated to affect up to half of all people with Parkinson’s disease at some stage. People are often understandably sad, pessimistic and anxious about their disease. They have the worry and stress of an uncertain future and they may face critical life events such as an early retirement from the workforce. Apart from these emotional reactions to their underlying disease, people with Parkinson’s disease may also have specific brain changes that increase their risk of depression.

Typical depressive symptoms such as low energy levels and problems with appetite and sleep, can be difficult to pick up in people affected by Parkinson’s disease. When present, anxiety and depression in people with Parkinson’s disease have a major negative influence on quality of life. They usually require treatment in their own right and do not simply respond to anti-Parkinsonian therapy. Please consider a donation to help.  

day 13 of 6am yoga

Tuesday 13th May
Getting cold at 5.30am these days... 6am class #13 of 31 
Since yesterday another 37 people have heard the words "you have Parkinson's disease" for the first time. There is no cure and a shortage of specialist services. Please consider a donation to help. 
Post 6am class smiles in todays pic with Lou who teaches every Tuesday 

Day 12 6am yoga for Parkinson's

Monday 12th May
International Nurses Day - 12th May 
Thank you to all the wonderful nurses who care for others and for their expertise and compassion.
One Parkinson's specialist neurological nurse can help hundreds of people every year. Without access to a neurological nurse a person living with Parkinson's would have no where to turn. 

6am yoga class with the wonderful Karolina Szymala in today's pic - thanks for a fab class Karolina... 

Day 11 - pilates @ State Flow Huskisson

Monday 12th May
Camping at Jervis Bay so up early for a sunrise swim at Greenpatch in the national park then a drive into town (thanks Perry) for 8am class to keep up the challenge 
I am lucky I can move freely and balance .

Symptoms of Parkinson's (part 3) 
- so as well as muscle cramps people with Parkinson's may also experience 
Difficulty getting out of bed 
Feeling hot and cold
Pain
Aching 
as well as anxiety, mood swims and panic attacks. 
Medication management is crucial although Parkinson's is a degenerative condition. 

Day 10 daily yoga for Parkinson's

Monday 12th May
Thanks for the warm welcome at South Coast Soul Jervis Bay. 
Camping this weekend so up early and drive from the National Park to a cute yoga studio - South Coast Soul at Jervis Bay and keep up the challenge: .

Symptoms (part 2) 
Numbness
General Stiffness
Panic attacks
"Cloudy mind" dulled thinking
Abdominal discomfort
Muscle cramps
- there are many more 

Day 9 6am yoga

Monday 12th May
Up bright and early at 5.30am to head to Step up for Parkinson's 6am yoga...(day 9 of 31) 
I'm lucky, not diagnosed with Parkinson's yet (you never see it coming) and able to move freely and balance.

Symptoms of Parkinson's disease (part 1)
Tremor
Difficulty with speech
Anxiety
Sweating
Mood changes
Weakness
Problems with balance
Slowness of movement
Difficulty moving hands 
- there are many more and there is no cure. This fundraiser is to ensure specialist services are available for people living with Parkinson's   

Day 8 6am yoga every day in May for Parkinson's disease

Thursday 8th May
Pitch black at 5.55am today and then a stunning sunrise over Coogee Beach in the middle of 6am class - see the sunny smiles afterwards.

Sometimes the onset of Parkinson's disease is characterised by vague, non-specific symptoms such as fatigue or localised muscle pain making early diagnosis very difficult . Other early symptoms of Parkinson's can include mild depression, restlessness or a softer voice, No two people will have the same experience , its is a very complex disease and is degenerative.  Please consider a donation so PNSW can continue education and more newly diagnosed seminars. 


 

Day 7 of 6am yoga

Wednesday 7th May
Exercise is second only to medication for people living with Parkinson’s
Boxing is one of the most effective due to combination of cognitive mind body and strength 
Access to specialist supports is limited particularly for people in regional Australia outside of metropolitan areas. 

Day 6 of 6am yoga

Tuesday 6th May
A spectacular sunrise at 6am yoga this morning 
Please help fund specialist services for people living with Parkinson's disease such as the much loved health information help line maned by a Parkinson's specialist nurse who can assist at the point of need with symptom and ,medication management. 

Day 5 Monday 6am yoga

Monday 5th May
Monday 5 May 2025:  Great start to the week with 6am yoga.   - pitch black at 5.57am when I entered the yoga studio.
- there is no definitive diagnosis for Parkinson's disease
- it is a neuro degenerative condition 
- there is no cure 
Thanks to Rachel  who is joining me on the mat every day in May.  Fantastic commitment Rachel 

Day 4 of 31 day yoga challenge for Parkinson's NSW

Monday 5th May
May 4th was a Sunday - so a lie in as class was at 7.30am and the sun was shining brightly when class ended at 8.30am

Day 3 of 6am yoga

Monday 5th May
Every 40 minutes another person is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and there is no cure.  
Thanks to these lovely yogis supporting me on the mat every day.
Please support my challenge to help raise funds to help people living with Parkinson's disease. Thank you  

Day 2 of 6am yoga

Friday 2nd May
Friday 2nd May - day 2 of 31 days of 6am yoga - heavy rain
Another 37 people will have been newly diagnosed since 6am yesterday . 
Thanks to all those who supported me on the mat in the heavy rain this morning

Day 1 of 6am yoga

Friday 2nd May
Great start to the 31 day challenge to raise awareness and funds for people living with Parkinson's Disease. 
266 people will be diagnosed with Parkinson's in the first week of this challenge . It is a neuro degenerative condition with no known cause and no cure.  

Thank you to my Sponsors

$55.18

Ben Fung

$59.41

Adrienne Et Bastien

Wonderful efforts Gary, thank you for sharing this with us and enabling us to learn and support more 💛

$55.18

Craig And Ali

Great cause Gary. Well done.

$11.65

Shelly

Well done for such an amazing cause!

$43.60

Brian

You're doing a grand job Gary, absolutely tremendous effort for another year mate Cheers, Brian

$200

Mart Evans

Go Gazza !

$317.55

A Friend

Well done Gary.

$51

Neil Summerfield

Good on ya Gary. Keep it up.

$54.12

Sandrine Kljajic

$323

The Livingroom Coogee Beach

Inspirational work Gary! ! Thank you for your commitment to your yoga practice, your loyalty to The Livingroom and for your compassion for this important cause! Well done Gary!

$55.18

Karissa

Nice work Gary!!!

$55.18

Daniella Sloman-goldberg

great fundraiser

$106.12

Anita Ullmann

What a legend!

$126.62

Ben Fung

$33.15

Greg Toms

$81.30

Perry Papast

Gary you're so thoughtful and pleasure to donate to this. Well done!!

$20

Chrissie Alexander

Amazing work & human!

$50

Thruconnect

$55.18

Eva Stepankova

$55.18

Jayron Jaro

$55.18

James Robertson

$54.12

Romina Aquinchay

Good luck with hitting your target.

$51

Dani Abourjeili

$211

Michelle Hannon

Go Gary

$55.18

David Harrison

Good luck with fundraising and thanks for being so polite about me calling you Nick😀😀

$100

Sean Spence

Good onya G

$100

Robyn Mckern

Go Gary - great effort raising money for a fantastic cause!

$81.30

Gail Kenning