Although its success is young, a local dance in Markham, near Toronto, Ontario, is proving to be a rewarding venture that is organized totally by a local Parkinson's support group. The concept was born while brainstorming ideas for Parkinson's fund raising and awareness. One of the "sports" moms in the group mentioned the idea of a dance and it took off from there. Tickets were printed, a hall was booked, a name was chosen, and donations were solicited. A small number from the support group worked steadily throughout last summer to prepare for the October dance. Most of us were not seasoned event planners or fundraisers. We experienced increasing trepidation as the date approached. Only our main organizer and hockey mom never doubted that we would succeed. The rest of us were less certain: Would all our time and effort bring a good result? Would we recoup expenses and make a profit? Would everything pull together at the last minute? The last two days leading up to the dance were chaotic. Many things needed immediate attention and our numbers were few. We all worked hard to transform the scene into an inviting atmosphere for dancing. One of our scariest moments came as 8:00 pm approached and we sat at the huge doors leading into Parkie Palooza. As our first guests approached we started to breathe again, and within half an hour we no longer had time to worry about breathing because we were so busy. The dance was a huge success and Parkinson Society, Canada benefited from the proceeds. Our success must have gone to our heads because we're doing it again and plan to make it an annual event. This year though, we think we might know what we're doing. We have learned from the mistakes we made and from those that attended the dance. This year's plan is bigger and better. Donators have been generous and the prizes are more spectacular. We hope to attract 1000 people to the same venue, doubling the number of last year. This year we have committees and people willing to help. It is a much easier sell. As we approach September, six weeks from the dance, we are more excited than scared.. We know what to expect and we expect the best. We also know that we are actively doing something positive to raise money to help those diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease now and in the future. Community awareness has been heightened as a direct result of this dance. All that has to make you feel good! You are all invited. Other PLWP's are coming. Book a table! Here are the details...