The 5th annual Flexairre Step n' Stride is coming back to Cochrane this September.

The annual walk/run not only raises funds but awareness for a disease that is complex and often misdiagnosed.

Zev KlymochkoMarketing and Communications Coordinator for Parkinson Association of Alberta, says funds raised go to support education, advocacy, and research on behalf of Albertans suffering from Parkinson's.

"It is estimated there are over 10,000 people suffering from Parkinson disease in Alberta; it is the second most common neuro-degenerate disorder in Alberta and the rates are increasing."

The increase in rates could be due to a variety of factors, shares Klymochko. "Diagnosis is more accurate than they previously were, where as people were unaware if they had the disease before, it is being discovered earlier, and there is just more knowledge and awareness."

Having people aware of symptoms can help in early diagnosis. "It can involve issues with balance and coordination, the tremor is one of the more common things. There is such a range of different symptoms that it can be difficult to diagnose that is why people are encouraged to speak to a qualified neurologist because it can manifest as symptoms that seem like other diseases."

The community of Cochrane was one of the founding communities to step forward and host the annual event, thanks to a passionate committee and volunteers. In 2016, over 100 walkers attended the event here in Cochrane, and in total $23,000 was raised. 

Cochrane is one of ten cities or towns in Alberta to hold the walk on the September 9/10 weekend and registration is underway.

The walk will include a kids activity area, music, a wellness fair, and lunch for participants. For more information or to register for the Sunday, September 10 walk at Mitford Park go here.