On April 26, 2025, the Hancock County Parkinson’s Network held its second annual Empower Walk at 50 North in Findlay, with over 350 attendees participating in the event. The walk, aimed at raising awareness for Parkinson’s disease and supporting those affected by it, featured a resource fair, fundraising opportunities, and activities to engage the community.
The event highlighted the importance of community involvement and provided valuable resources for individuals and caregivers impacted by Parkinson’s disease. Participants walked to honor and support those living with Parkinson’s, with some guests receiving red tulips, symbolizing strength and resilience. Caregivers also received blue tulips as a symbol of the trust and support they provide.
Funds raised from the event will go directly to supporting the programs and initiatives of the Hancock County Parkinson’s Network, which provides education, resources, and support for individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease in the region.
2025 Photos & Sponsors
Photos by Paige Rosselet
$500 - $999 - COPPER
5K for JK, Blanchard Valley Health System, C. Paul Palmer, Carleton Palmer III, Candace Hendershot, David Long - In Honor of David Braun, John and Patti Haywood, Karen Spurgat, Robison, Curphey & O'Connell, LLC, Spectrum Eye Care Inc., Taylor Hyundai, Theresa Ellerbrock, The Manor At Greendale, UIS Insurance and Investments, Vern & Debbie Preston
$250 - $499 - BRONZE
Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Anita Heintzelman, AR Epoxy Flooring LLC., Byron and Julie Brown, Coldren-Crates Funeral Home, Cynthia Rotman - In memory of Riad Yammine, David Seasly, Dr. Bahn - Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio, Elizabeth Hipp, Hancock Co. Medical Society, Heavenly Pizza, Larry and Brenda McDaniel, Medtronic, Merrie Williams, Northwest Ohio Orthopedics & Sports Medicine INC., Ohio Rafales, Ohio Senior Medicare Patrol / Pro Seniors, Patricia Lucas, Preferred Fence and Deck, Provision Living at Findlay, Reginald & Barb Routson, Scott Atkins, Lori & Dr. Scott Rioche, Blanchard Valley Family Physicians, Spitzer Buick GMC, Toledo Clinic Kouba Dermatology, Tom and Mary Moorhead, Tyler George - In Honor of Barb George
Basket Raffle & Silent Auction Donors
Altrusa, Anonymous, Barb George, Bridge Home Care and Hospice, Carol Kingston, Cathy Grossman, Connor & Katie Jack, Cornerstone Caregiving, Creations by Chris, David Bettenhausen, Debra Haas/Denny Underwood, Dietsch's, Diane Hite/LuAnn Kaylor, Everything's Chicken, EncompassCare, Fox Rehab, Fox Run Manor, Hart Medical Equipment, JoAnne Heyman/Nicole Bruskotter, Laura DeMuth, Laurie DeMuth, Lin Stocker, Lisa Emerson, Michael's Craft Store, Ohio Living Home Care and Hospice, Place of Joy, Papillon Boutique, Provision Living of Findlay, Rehab Hospital of NOW, Rebecca Kaser/Heather Poschman, Rhonda Wolke, Robin Hammer, RooBarb, Ryder Collab, Style Encore, Sycamore Springs Golf Course, Taylor Place Assisted Living, Tabler Insurance, Tom & Cindy Messenger, TNT Firearms/Home Depot/Panthers Pizzeria, Vibes Salon, Wine Merchant, Whitson Properties.
2024 WALK
The inaugural Parkinson's Empower Walk, hosted by the Hancock County Parkinson's Network, was held on Saturday, April 27th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at 50 North, Findlay.
Thank you to everyone who made the event a huge success! We're immensely grateful to our dedicated committee members, hardworking volunteers, and team captains for rallying their teams. Special thanks to our wonderful vendors and the fantastic team at 50 North for hosting us!
And of course, a huge shoutout to our sponsors and donors who made our inaugural year possible. Your support is a testament to the incredible community backing individuals with Parkinson's in our area.
The event’s success validates our mission, and we can't wait to continue making a difference together!
2024 Photos
Photo credit to Machelle Fowler
A message from Barb Matheny, Founder.
"I am filled with profound gratitude and overwhelming excitement to welcome each and every one of you to our inaugural Parkinson's Empower Walk. Today marks a momentous occasion as we come together to embark on a journey of empowerment, resilience, and unity.
I stand before you not only as the founder of the Hancock County Parkinson's Network but as a proud member of this extraordinary community. Each step we take today is a testament to our commitment to living well with Parkinson's, to supporting one another, and to raising awareness about this challenging yet resilient community.
Before we cut this symbolic red ribbon and set forth on our walk, I want to express my deepest appreciation to every volunteer, sponsor, caregiver, and participant who has made today possible. Your dedication, generosity, and unwavering support inspire us all.
Today, as we take that pivotal first step together, let us remember that the first lap of our walk is reserved for those holding a red tulip, symbolizing our solidarity with those affected by Parkinson's Disease.
So, let us join hands, hearts, and spirits as we embark on this journey together. Let us walk with purpose, determination, and hope, knowing that every step we take today brings us closer to a brighter future for all those affected by Parkinson's.
Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for being a part of this transformative moment. Let's walk together, let's empower each other, and let's redefine what it means to live well with Parkinson's."
