Singer inspires in fight with Parkinson's

By LAURIE MUSTARD
http://winnipegsun.com/News/Winnipeg...67163-sun.html

Wow, are they in for a musical treat at the Parkinson Society Regional Conference this weekend at the Norwood Hotel.

Award-winning Washington, D.C.-based folk singer Grace Griffith, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 1998, will make a special appearance, performing an hour-long show in support of the conference's "Living the best life possible" theme.

Grace said developing Parkinson's has in some ways resulted in positive changes.

"It really does present an opportunity for growth because it shows you what's the big stuff, and what's the small stuff," she said. "Some of the big stuff being fellowship, shared struggles and connecting with people. The small stuff ... is the stuff we always thought was big stuff. Calamity ... give us the opportunity to notice joy and beauty in things that before you might have just passed by without seeing."

Her life with Parkinson's, career as a physical therapist and commitment to the healing art of music have led her to become increasingly involved in educating people about the disease.

"What an honour. We are thrilled she's been able to join us, share her music and story and be an inspiration to our Parkinson community locally," says Laura Asher, acting executive director for the Parkinson Society of Manitoba.

Sadly, the public can't take in the show. But we can enjoy her music, available through Blix Street Records. I'm a Joni Mitchell fan (and now Grace, too), and I hear touches of her style in Grace's music, along with other, perhaps more earthy influences.

Now, while Grace is doing what she can to "heal" Parkinson's, the staff and students at a local school are doing what they can to make a difference for war-affected children.

Delayna Chester, a teacher at Lockport School, with the help of colleague Chantelle Schoofs and total support and involvement from students, presented their production of Through The Eyes of a Child: War Affected Children last night. A second performance is scheduled for tonight at the school. Tickets are available by calling 757-9881. All proceeds will go to War Child Canada.

The ultimate goal of the project, said Delayna, "is to bring as much awareness concerning war-torn countries and all the children that are affected by the violent situations they must encounter daily. It is our responsibility, not only as educators, but as global citizens to be educated on these issues, and raise awareness.

"Every bit makes a difference in another child's life. Every child has rights, so why don't these children?"

Applause to Lockport School for their compassionate approach to children at risk globally. Curtain time is 7 p.m.