Isa Adams
I’ve always believed that even in life’s toughest moments, there’s room for positivity, resilience, and community. When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I knew I had a choice — I could let it define me, or I could respond with action. I chose action.
Living with Parkinson’s means navigating both physical and emotional challenges every day. I understand firsthand how complex the condition can be. But rather than stepping back, I became determined to stay active and to uplift others walking a similar path. That’s what led me to become involved in ParknDance and to champion the idea that movement truly is medicine.
Dance has been transformative for me. Through music, rhythm, and tailored movement, I’ve found not only improved strength and mobility, but also joy, confidence, and connection.
Beyond the dance floor, I’m passionate about supporting Fight Parkinson’s as a community fundraiser. For me, fundraising isn’t just about asking for donations — it’s about inviting people to be part of something meaningful and hopeful.
I also share my story publicly whenever I can. Speaking openly about my experience helps break down stigma, encourages earlier diagnosis, and reminds people that they’re not alone.
I’m proud to stand with Fight Parkinson’s and to contribute in any way I can. My message is simple: keep moving, keep connecting, and never lose sight of joy.
Rod Hadfield
Rod is widely regarded as one of the fathers of hot-rodding in Australia, a title earned through decades of passion, persistence, and belief in the power of community.
Looking back, Rod doesn’t just see cars — he sees people. “It was never just about the vehicles,” he says. “It was about giving people something to be passionate about, something that brought them together.”
In recent years, Rod’s journey has taken a deeply personal turn following his diagnosis of Parkinson’s. Living with Parkinson’s has changed many aspects of daily life, but it hasn’t changed who he is or what he stands for.
For Rod, raising awareness of Parkinson’s is important because he knows how misunderstood the condition can be. He understands firsthand the impact it has on movement, confidence, and independence — but he also knows the emotional toll it takes on families and carers.
Rod’s advocacy comes from the same place as his life’s work: a desire to help others and to leave things better than he found them. “If sharing my story helps even one person feel less alone, or pushes research and support forward, then it’s worth it,” he says.
Rod Hadfield’s legacy is one of passion, resilience, and purpose — proof that even when the road changes, the drive to help others never does.
Marty Rankin
Marty Rankin is a former real estate agent and business owner who built two agencies in Melbourne’s inner west while raising a large, blended family. He is a proud father to Brad (31) and Lily (16), husband to Rachel, step-father to Chloe (32), Olivia (28) and Gabrielle (25), and grandfather to Willow (3) and Hugo (7). Family, connection and showing up for others have always defined his life.
Music is where Marty’s heart lives. As part of a group of professional musicians, he has long believed in the power of music to heal, connect and uplift. In 2022, Marty was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease — a moment that reshaped his life and sharpened his sense of purpose.
While grateful for access to world-class healthcare, Marty recognised that many Australians living with Parkinson’s in regional and remote communities struggle to access meaningful support. Rather than step back, he chose to act.
In November, his band raised more than $5,000 for Fight Parkinson’s at a fundraising gig in Yarraville, transforming personal challenge into collective action. Since then, Marty and the band have partnered with an exercise physiologist to deliver drumming, singing and dance workshops in communities — activities shown to support brain health and build new neural pathways.
As an ambassador for A Walk in the Park, Marty walks for his family, his community, and every person living with Parkinson’s who deserves hope, dignity and support.
Shane Jacobson
Shane Jacobson is one of Australia’s most beloved entertainers — an award-winning actor, director and presenter best known for his breakout role in Kenny. With a career built on humour, heart and authenticity, Shane has long connected deeply with audiences across film, television and stage. Beyond the spotlight, one of his most meaningful roles is as an Ambassador for Fight Parkinson's — a cause close to his heart.
Shane’s connection to Parkinson’s is personal. His mother, Jill, lives with the condition. Watching someone he loves navigate the daily realities of Parkinson’s has given Shane a deep understanding of its impact — not only on those diagnosed, but also on families and carers. That lived experience fuels his commitment to raising awareness, supporting research and advocating for better services.
As an Ambassador for Fight Parkinson’s and A Walk in the Park, Shane uses his platform to amplify the voices of people living with Parkinson’s and highlight the urgent need for continued investment in research and support. Whether speaking at events or sharing his family’s story, he brings sincerity, compassion and optimism to the conversation.
Through his advocacy, Shane honours his mum’s resilience and helps foster connection and hope within the Parkinson’s community — reminding families they are not alone while contributing to the push for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Kate Cowen
Kate Cowan is proud to serve as an ambassador for Fight Parkinson’s, a cause deeply personal to her and aligned with her lifelong commitment to public service and community impact. Growing up as the daughter of Sir Zelman Cowan—former Governor-General of Australia and a passionate social justice advocate—Kate learned early the importance of using one’s voice to support others.
Parkinson’s is often called an “invisible” disease, misunderstood and reduced to stereotypes. In her role, Kate aims to change that narrative by raising awareness, improving public understanding, and ensuring people living with Parkinson’s—and their families—feel seen, supported, and empowered. She is especially motivated by the wide-ranging effects of the disease, recognizing that its emotional, social, and psychological challenges are often overlooked. By highlighting the lived experiences of those affected, she hopes to foster empathy and encourage meaningful conversations about care, research, and quality of life.
For Kate, supporting Fight Parkinson’s is about hope: hope for better treatments, ongoing research breakthroughs, and a future where no one faces Parkinson’s alone. She is inspired by the resilience of the Parkinson’s community and the dedication of researchers, carers, and advocates. As an ambassador, Kate is committed to amplifying these voices and keeping Parkinson’s a visible, urgent, and shared priority.
Sean Anderson
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in March 2017 at the age of 43. Before that, I’d noticed a tremor in my right hand while mountain biking and people commented on a limp I hadn’t realised I had. I assumed it was fatigue or fitness — anything but Parkinson’s. The diagnosis was overwhelming, and the hardest part was the uncertainty of how quickly things might change and how long I’d be able to keep doing the things I love.
I’ve been fortunate that my Parkinson’s is progressing slowly, and I’ve continued working since my diagnosis. Exercise has become essential, with cycling playing a huge role in managing my symptoms. Some days are tougher than others, with stiffness and muscle rigidity making movement challenging, but I’ve learned that medication and regular exercise together make a real difference.
Parkinson’s isn’t only the visible symptoms. There are also fatigue, anxiety, sleep issues and cognitive changes that people don’t always see. Despite this, it’s not a death sentence — with support and adjustments, you can still live a full and meaningful life.
The support of my wife, family, friends and workplace, along with the guidance from Fight Parkinson’s, has been invaluable. I’m proud to be an ambassador for A Walk in the Park to help others feel supported and connected, and to remind people living with Parkinson’s that they are not alone.
Georgy McIntyre
Georgy McIntyre is a passionate advocate and ambassador for Fight Parkinson’s and A Walk in the Park, inspired by a deeply personal connection to the cause. Her journey began in 2022 when she and her family—Hyxy, Libby, Lachie, and Annie—joined A Walk in the Park after connecting through peer support groups. What started as a small team quickly became a meaningful source of connection as they shared their story and recognised how widely Parkinson’s affects individuals and communities.
The experience was both emotional and transformative, motivating Georgy to deepen her involvement. In 2023, she became an official ambassador, while Hyxy’s Team expanded significantly, increasing both its size and fundraising impact. Driven by this momentum, Georgy focused on raising awareness, strengthening community connections, and encouraging open conversations about Parkinson’s.
Under her leadership, Hyxy’s Team has grown to over 30 members, extending across Australia and internationally. Through storytelling, social media, and initiatives like “A Day in the Life of Living with Parkinson’s,” Georgy highlights the realities of the condition while celebrating the resilience of those affected.
Her advocacy is grounded in the belief that community, education, and open dialogue are essential—ensuring no one faces Parkinson’s alone.
John Eren
John Eren was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019 — a moment that marked both a profound personal challenge and the beginning of a new chapter. After nearly two decades serving his community as a member of the Victorian Parliament, he made the difficult decision to retire and prioritise his health, while stepping forward as a passionate advocate for people living with Parkinson’s.
His journey began with subtle but persistent symptoms: tingling in his fingertips, reduced arm movement and difficulty buttoning his shirts. When a parliamentary colleague noticed his hand shaking during a presentation, John sought medical advice and received his diagnosis. While unexpected, the diagnosis provided clarity and a renewed sense of purpose. Rather than retreat, he chose to use his voice and experience to support others facing similar uncertainty.
In 2020, John became an ambassador for 27forParkinson’s, sharing his story publicly to break down stigma and foster hope. That same year, his fundraising efforts helped raise $23,000 to support vital research and services. For John, fundraising has never been only about dollars raised — it’s about building awareness, strengthening community and reminding people living with Parkinson’s that they are not alone.
Now an Ambassador for Fight Parkinson’s, John continues to champion research, early diagnosis and stronger support networks for families across Victoria and beyond. Through public speaking, community events and advocacy, he works to amplify the voices of those living with Parkinson’s and encourage others to seek support earlier. His message is simple but powerful: Parkinson’s may change your life, but it does not define it.
Sean Atkinson
Sean Atkinson is a Geelong-based sports management professional and passionate advocate for Parkinson’s awareness, proudly serving as an ambassador for the 2026 A Walk in the Park. As Commercial Partnerships and Communications Manager at AFL Barwon, Sean has built his career around community connection and storytelling — skills he now uses to raise awareness for a cause close to his heart.
In 2023, at just 36, Sean was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. With no family history or prior health concerns, the diagnosis came as a shock. Like many, he had believed Parkinson’s primarily affected older people, but his experience highlights a lesser-known reality — many people living with Parkinson’s are under 50.
Since then, Sean has become a strong voice for the community, working to challenge misconceptions and highlight the full impact of Parkinson’s — from physical symptoms to cognitive and emotional challenges.
Through initiatives like A Walk in the Park and involvement in national events and clinical trials, Sean is committed to raising awareness and supporting research.
Driven by resilience and purpose, he continues to make a meaningful impact — helping build a more informed, supportive community while contributing to the search for better treatments and a cure.
