Inaugural Shaken Not Stirred event raises $10K for local Parkinson's disease services

Hundreds gathered at the Laurel Packing House on Saturday evening for the inaugural Shaken Not Stirred event.

Organized by the Kelowna Parkinson’s Support Group, Shaken Not Stirred, was created as a way to bolster the support and services available to the over 1,500 people battling the degenerative disease in the Okanagan.

“Parkinson’s Society B.C. support us very well, but we also felt like we could support our local members better if we had more money in the Kelowna support group’s account,” said Debbie Hartley, one of the event’s organizers.

The event welcomed guests to a semi-formal evening of live music, delicious wine and food, socializing and philanthropy.

From bidding on graciously donated prizes like signed hockey jerseys and fully stocked wine fridges to purchasing raffle or 50/50 tickets, the event had no shortage of ways to support the important cause.

According to a quick estimate from Hartley, the cause managed to muster up an impressive $10,000 and a great time for all in attendance.

“We are really pleased,” said Hartley.

“We had bids on all the items, everyone was dressed up and had such a fun time dancing — we are thrilled with the results.”

According Hartley the funds garnered will go toward being able to bring another trainer for Kelowna’s Parkinson’s recovery program to help those with Parkinson’s develop their skills and physical abilities.

Though the event was a sparkling success for the inaugural year, Hartley says there is “always work that can be done,” and has high hopes of one day achieving the group’s ultimate dream.

“Our ultimate goal would be to have a movement disorder clinic here that can function two to three days a week with another neurologist, in addition to having pre and post brain stimulation surgery services available within our hospital.”

To support the efforts of the Kelowna support group or the Parkinson's Society of British Columbia, click here!