On Sunday, Sep. 11, Cochrane will be one of the 10 towns or cities stepping forward to make a difference for Parkinson's disease in Alberta.

The annual Flexxaire Parkinson Step and Stride, Parkinson Alberta's largest annual fundraising effort, will take place at the Cochrane Ranche Historic Site from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Parkinson's disease has no cause or cure, and affects the nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine. Parkinson's disease symptoms include muscle rigidity, tremors, and changes in speech.

Parkinson Alberta Event and Volunteer Coordinator Katie von Hansen says Cochrane was one of the founding communities of the step and stride event.

"The Cochrane community as a whole was one of the first communities that developed their own Step and Stride walk," she explains. "We have offices in seven different cities across Alberta, but because of places like Cochrane who had a really dedicated passionate committee about having their own walk, we've had other cities come forward and follow in their footsteps. "

Von Hansen shares the event accounts for more than 55% of Parkinson Alberta's annual fundraising efforts, however it's about more than just money.

"It's very important to get the awareness out about parkinson's, you may not realize people you know have it, or people in the community. Events like these help us discover new people we can help, but also continue to help the people that we've been helping for several years."

Parkinson Alberta provides support services, education, and funds for research to help make everyday better for people with parkinson's and those who care for them in Alberta.

The event will include, a Barbeque, kids games, a band, and will be MC'd by Alex Baum.

For more information click here.