cann Charitable Trust (formerly Duncan Foundation) is actively involved in supporting the Pacifica Parkinson’s community, including individuals diagnosed with PINK1 Parkinson’s — a rare, early-onset form of Parkinson’s disease linked to mutations in the PINK1 gene. This condition, which has been found in individuals of Pacific descent, often presents much earlier than typical Parkinson’s, with symptoms sometimes emerging as early as 12 years of age. Due to this early onset, traditional physiotherapy approaches must be adapted, with goals often focused on enabling individuals to maintain employment, participate in sport, and meet the demands of parenting.
cann offers funded neuro-physiotherapy assessments and education sessions through our C.O.R.E. package (Condition-Oriented Rehabilitation & Education) for individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of PINK1 Parkinson’s from a neurologist. These sessions aim to support proactive strategies for long-term wellbeing and manage current symptoms.
We also support the Pacifica Parkinson’s Support Group, a community-based initiative that hosts monthly gatherings for people living with Parkinson’s and their families. cann clinician and neuro-physiotherapist, Juee Bhide, attends these meetings to foster connection in a non-clinical setting and to share practical education on the importance of exercise in Parkinson’s management. Juee also leads a short group exercise session during each meeting.
As research into PINK1 Parkinson’s continues to grow, cann remains committed to working alongside researchers, neurologists, and families to find the most effective ways to support this community.
