[Stitcher]

Parkinson's Superwalker gives it a herculean effort

By JANE SIMS, SUN MEDIA
Sun, September 30, 2007
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/News/Loc...37746-sun.html

Parkinson's has robbed Klaas Moes of his driver's licence, his penmanship and sometimes his voice.

He points to the scrapes on his legs from falling. He has tremors and shakes. He's often in pain and has little energy.

But without trying, Moes, 75, still raised $2,500 for Parkinson's research this weekend.

Moes, a founding member of the Strathroy Parkinson's support group, will be honoured with a special award today at the London and District Superwalk for Parkinson's at Greenway Park.

In 13 years, he's raised more than $37,000 for the event.

"To me, the Lord put it on me to let people know about Parkinson's," he said at the apartment he shares with his wife of 57 years, Bertha.

Moes has been the community's Parkinson's ambassador, unafraid of talking about his affliction and rallying people to support research through Tulip Beds for Hope, Fresh Cut Tulips, raffle tickets and a holiday cake drive.

"We couldn't in 100 years accomplish what he has accomplished in his 14 years as an active participant in this," said Andre Motuzas, co-ordinator of fund development for the London chapter of Parkinson Society Canada.

A former salesperson, Moes seemed a natural to raise awareness. Five years ago, he was one of only 50 Canadians to receive the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal for his efforts.

"He lives and breathes the advocacy. He really is someone who has been doing this constantly," Motuzas said.

But as Moes lives with the progressive neurological condition, his health is failing.

He hasn't been able to walk in the event for three years. The Strathroy mayor has walked for him in the past.

Last year Moes stepped down from his position with the Strathroy support group, but still he offers his guidance.

Moes said he's been able to do a lot because of his exceptional caregiver -- his wife.

He has a scooter to travel around. He's on 11 or 12 medications, taking 25 pills daily.

Moes said he has to prepare himself for the day he won't be able to walk. But, he added, he doesn't look too far ahead.

"You take it day by day. You don't know when it's going to progress."