Parkinson Nebraska’s Skate-a-thon Brings in Over $20K

More than 500 skaters turned out for Parkinson Nebraska’s (www.parkinsonsnebraska.org) 9th annual Skate-a-thon on January 25–26, which was hosted in partnership with University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). The 24-hour skating event once again raised more than $20,000.

With this year’s total, the UNMC Skate-a-thon for Parkinson’s has now netted more than $210,000 in proceeds during its nine years at the UNMC Ice Rink. Proceeds go toward clinical and basic science Parkinson›s research at UNMC as well as Parkinson’s Nebraska, an organization started by the Wuebben family to provide affordable exercise, education, and services to improve quality of life for persons with Parkinson’s.

Five skaters, Chris Rush, Oscar Knutson, Ryan Cary, Tyler Cary and Jenny Knutson, skated all 24 hours. The leading fundraising team was LeaseTeam, Inc. (headed by Ryan Cary). The team raised more than $4,200 in donations.

UNMC physicians John Bertoni, M.D., Ph.D., and Howard Gendelman, M.D. spoke at the opening ceremonies, while Diego Torres-Russotto, M.D., participated in the closing ceremonies. Longtime UNMC faculty member, Jeff Baldwin, Pharm.D., who just retired this month after a 45-year career in the UNMC College of Pharmacy, was recognized at the opening ceremonies. He has been battling Parkinson’s disease since 2013.

Sponsors this year included: Anderson Convenience Market; Project Advocates; Masimore, Magnuson, & Associates, PC; Acadia Pharmaceuticals; Heritage Communities; LTi Technology Solutions; and Lundbeck Pharmaceutical Company.

Parkinson’s Nebraska is the primary source of education, support, and resources for Nebraskans whose lives are affected by Parkinson’s Disease. They are locally-based, passionate, and proud that all funds stay in Nebraska. To learn more, contact amber@parkinsonsnebraska.org / (402) 715-4707 or visit www.parkinsonsnebraska.org.