During a press conference held as part of the third edition of the national Sport for Parkinson’s campaign, the Minister for Education, Sports, Youth, Research, and Innovation, Hon. Clifton Grima, spoke about the positive impact that sports have when bringing people and communities together in our country, especially when used as a means of altruism and solidarity. He encouraged sports associations, clubs, and athletes to respond to this national call and organize activities for this noble cause.
Opposition Spokesperson for Public Health, Hon. Adrian Delia, expressed his admiration both for the Maltese Olympic Committee and SportMalta for joining forces with the volunteer organization Step Up For Parkinson’s to provide maximum support for improving the lives of individuals living with this neurological condition. He appealed to the government not only to focus on noble volunteer initiatives but also to actively help and support them.
Also present was the Chairman of SportMalta, Mr. Matthew Pisani, who expressed SportMalta’s satisfaction in being part of this sports event of solidarity to address the challenges faced by people living with Parkinson’s. He added that the Sport for Parkinson’s initiative is increasing awareness about the need for exercise, not only as a means of physical health but also as a way to improve mental well-being and alleviate social isolation.
The Secretary General of the Maltese Olympic Committee (MOC), Mr. Kevin Azzopardi, highlighted MOC’s pride in being involved in Sport for Parkinson’s as it provides an opportunity to achieve social justice through sports – a fundamental principle for everyone involved in any sporting discipline. He encouraged more national federations and clubs to respond to this call and fulfill their duty to give back to society.
Significantly, the appeal made by our country’s Parkinson’s ambassador, Mr. Adrian Casha, emphasizes the fundamental right for individuals like us to live a BETTER LIFE. He further highlights that BETTER LIFE is the theme of the charity marathon organized by Step Up For Parkinson’s, which will be broadcasted on various television stations on Saturday, 26th October 2024.
Mr. Casha extends his gratitude to the clubs and sports associations participating in this initiative and emphasizes that despite living with Parkinson’s for six years, he is in complete control of his life, more active than ever before, and always reminds himself that: “I have Parkinson’s, but Parkinson’s does not have me!”
This press conference was conducted by the presenter, Ms. Joanna Camilleri.
