Poets Speak out for Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s New Zealand Media Statement

May 2008

Poets Speak out for Parkinson’s

In a show of support for Parkinson’s, six of New Zealand’s most well known and awarded poets will read a selection of their work at ‘Poetry for Parkinson’s’, to be held in Wellington in June.

This unique event, which aims to raise awareness of Parkinson’s, will be held at Capital E, Civic Square, Wellington on Wednesday 11 June 2008. After wine and nibbles from 5.30pm, the poets will begin their readings at 6.15pm.

Poets in the line up are Jenni Bornholdt, Anne French, Michael Harlow, Vincent O’Sullivan, Harry Ricketts and Brian Turner. The master of ceremonies for the evening is Jane Westaway, joint editor of New Zealand books.

“This is a rare opportunity for people to hear some of the country’s most talented poets and also to show support for New Zealanders living with Parkinson’s,” said Deirdre O’Sullivan, National Director of Parkinson’s New Zealand.

Parkinson’s affects one person in every 500, approximately 9,000 New Zealanders. It is a progressive neurological disorder which can affect everyday activities such as talking, walking, swallowing and writing. The condition occurs when cells in the part of the brain that controls movement are lost. These cells produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that enables fluid movement.

Tickets for ‘Poetry for Parkinson’s’ are strictly limited to 100 and are available from Parkinson’s New Zealand for a donation of $25 per person - phone 04 472 2796 or email info@parkinsons.org.nz or send a cheque to PO Box 11067, Manners Street, Wellington 6142 attention “Poetry for Parkinson’s.”

ENDS

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