2 weeks Ago
Sue Edge, a tireless advocate and supporter of people with Parkinson’s Disease, is the City of Mandurah’s Local Legend for October. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2010, the former schoolteacher refused to let the diagnosis define her and dedicated herself to art, fundraising and supporting people in the community affected by the disease. For the past 13 years, with her support, understanding and compassion Sue has made a lasting impact on the community, according to Mayor Rhys Williams.
“Sue is a true hero. She is the epitome of resilience and strength in the face of her own daily challenges with Parkinson’s Disease,” Mr Williams said. “Sue’s positive outlook allows her to give a patient, listening ear to people trying to navigate and understand Parkinson’s.
“She has shown incredible leadership by organising many events, activities, fundraisers and groups to raise awareness of Parkinson’s and give people a creative outlet to express what they are going through. “She is a truly remarkable woman who we are lucky to have in Mandurah.” At Sue’s monthly Parkinson’s Support Group (under the umbrella of Parkinson’s WA) people enjoy singing, dancing, arts and crafts, and receive valuable information about living with Parkinson’s and its daily challenges.
Sue also organises regular boxing classes and fundraising events including the annual Walk in the Park to support home nurse visits for people with the disease. Her recent fundraising efforts for Walk in the Park saw her raise $3575. Sue’s passion for art and creativity has allowed her support to spread even further through her regular Unsteady Hand Mob art workshops and her self-published book, Our Bobbleheaded Nanna, which teaches children about Parkinson’s.
Sue said she likes to bring colour to people’s lives through art, and has become an artist in her own right, creating bags, coasters, clothing, laptop pouches and other items bearing her colourful designs which are all sold to raise funds. She has also produced and directed two theatre shows – Kinetics and Say That Again – which were held at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre with all proceeds going to Parkinson’s, and delivered a TEDx talk in 2021. Keep up with Sue’s journey and view her art online at Bobblehead Nanna.
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