By BRIDGET SCOTT
A PARKINSON’S disease sufferer from Hallam has been recognised for her committed work in helping others with this disease feel more at ease.
Anne Atkin was presented with a Senior Achievement Award at Government House on Thursday 2 October to acknowledge her work with Parkinson’s Victoria.
Ms Atkin is behind the program Painting with Parkinson’s, which she set up across the state and in Western Australia.
“I got it for the program Painting with Parkinson’s, which helps people develop skills to help them relax,” she said.
Ms Atkin said it was “lovely to walk along the red carpet” and was “thrilled to be nominated”.
City of Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon acknowledged the hard working senior at Tuesday’s council meeting.
“She has created a level of health and wellbeing for people dealing with this disease,” she said.
Following a career dedicated to helping others, Ms Atkin retired and was diagnosed with Parkison’s shortly after.
“My little sister actually joined Parkinson’s Victoria for me,” she said.
“I ended up volunteering to be their librarian.”
“I love talking so I ended up becoming an ambassador.”
Ms Atkins’s program Painting with Parkinsons has recently been accepted by community and health centres across the state which she said is very exciting.
Her first program was set up in Berwick and Ms Atkin admitted this one will always remain close to her heart.
“I don’t want to be stuck down, so I set them up, train people and quietly back out,” she said.
“But I will always be involved in the Berwick one – it was my first one, I love it and I love the people.”
The Hallam resident of 37 years said it’s very satisfying to know she is helping others dealing with the disease.
“It’s wonderful, I get letters from people saying that they’re looking forward to it,” she said.
“I really love it when people come up and tell me I’ve helped them.”
