TWO of Australia’s foremost researchers on Parkinson’s disease will speak in Warrnambool next month at one of the first public lectures on the issue in regional Victoria.
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Florey Institute scientist Professor David Finkelstein and Melbourne neurologist Dr Wesley Thevathasan will give an insight into research and treatments for the debilitating disease, which affects 27,000 Victorians.
Warrnambool sufferer Andrew Suggett is on the Parkinson’s Victoria board which decided to extend the accessibility of keynote lectures to promote World Parkinson’s Day.
Bendigo will also host the lectures by the two experts.
Up to 150 people are expected to attend the Warrnambool session on April 21 at Deakin University campus starting at 6pm.
Project leader and therapist at Parkinson’s Victoria, Toby Osborn, told The Standard there was keen interest in research developments.
“We saw a strong demand from regional Victorians,” he said.
“It’s difficult to predict when the big breakthrough will come in finding a cure, but research can give people hope knowing scientists are working very hard on this disease.
“New pharmaceuticals are showing promise and as well as exercise regimes.
“It strikes mostly people aged 65 and upwards, but there are a number of working-age cases, including one of a Warrnambool district man in his 30s.”
Mr Suggett said exercise has given him years more of quality life after being diagnosed in the year 2000, when it was predicted he would be unable to walk in five years.
“People with the disease in Warrnambool and district are very keen to hear from researchers,” Mr Suggett said.
“We had 50 turn out today to hear Toby speak about current treatments.”
Anyone who would like to attend the lecture is advised to make a booking through Parkinson’s Victoria on 1800 644 189.
