If you have ever attended Parkinson SuperWalk in British Columbia, you will know firsthand that at the heart of the SuperWalk spirit is a sense of community, togetherness, and celebration. Every year, longtime volunteer Sandra Alexander embodies that spirit from behind the Vancouver registration desk, where her warm smile and infectious positivity help make everyone feel welcome.
Sandra is a carepartner to her husband Gary, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) over 20 years ago. As a father of three and faithful employee of 42 years at a very physical job, the couple assumed it was just overwork when Gary started having challenges with his pinky finger and shoulder. However, it was a change in Gary’s personality that got Sandra wondering if perhaps something more was at play; normally quiet and reserved, he started experiencing mood issues and an inability to make decisions or handle small stressors, like dishes not being put away. He was also an avid cyclist and motorcyclist, enjoying being active as much as possible, but this too began to change.
A pivotal moment came when the family was moving and Gary was standing on the back of a truck moving a box, when he suddenly fell off the truck like a tree. Understandably alarmed, Sandra remembers saying to him, “There’s something wrong.” They booked an appointment with their doctor and, seven months later, finally saw a neurologist, who confirmed it was Parkinson’s within five minutes.
Sandra walked away from that appointment in tears, unsure of what the future would hold for her, Gary, and their three children. Questions about what to do, who to tell and when, and how to get medications all swirled around her head.
Fortunately, the couple connected with Parkinson Society BC (PSBC), which was able to provide the information and support they needed beyond what the medical system could offer. Sandra immersed herself in all of PSBC’s available resources, reading anything and everything she could find in our extensive library as she worked to better understand Parkinson’s and what lay ahead. She says if it wasn’t for the Society, she does not know what they would have done.
Sandra expressed her gratitude by beginning to volunteer with PSBC in various roles throughout the decades, a decision she describes as an “absolutely amazing journey.” She has become a staple of the Vancouver SuperWalk registration table and is every participant and walker’s biggest cheerleader.
Every year, Sandra looks forward to seeing the many familiar faces she has come to know at Parkinson SuperWalk. Through this event, Sandra has built strong relationships with participants and volunteers alike, making her an integral part of the SuperWalk community. Despite the challenges she has faced, Sandra feels her life is full and strives to make the most of each and every day.
Below are two videos featuring Sandra and her inspirational story: