This year he, and wife Anne, were keen to get involved in the Walk for Parkinson’s, which takes place on Sunday, March 27.
Kelvin is currently living in full-time care at Royal Freemasons Benalla, and is unable to get to the official walk to take part.
However, he has registered to be a virtual participant, and together with Anne, and staff at Royal Freemasons, he will be undertaking a walk on site, and in nearby streets.
He has set up ‘Team Kelvin’ and is keen for people to donate, if they can.
Anne said his journey began when he was initially diagnosed in 1999 by a doctor in Brisbane at the age of 45.
“Back then Kel worked as a security guard,” Anne said.
“In 2002 it became clear that he could no longer work in that field, so we purchased a caravan and retired early.
“We travelled between our Brisbane family and our family in Victoria for approximately three years until we settled back in Benalla in 2005.
“It was great to have family and friends close by to help support us both on this journey.
“We were fortunate to find a local support group, which was run by Tessa Davis, and this grew to be a big part of our lives.
“I took over as the group facilitator when Tess left the group back in 2008.
“After a new Community Health Centre was opened, we welcomed Deb Smith to guide us along the way.
“Deb was an amazing friend and chairperson to all of the group until she recently retired.
“When COVID struck, unfortunately the group was not allowed to meet regularly.
“But hopefully it will get back on track with monthly meet and greets.”
Anne said in 2012, Kelvin went in to Royal Melbourne Hospital to have a deep brain stimulation operation, which gave him quite a few years of quality of life.
“Kelvin’s health deteriorated in 2020 and had to go into full-time care; we chose Royal Freemasons in Benalla as it wasn’t far from the family home,” she said.
If you would like to help to raise funds for this great organisation you can donate via www.awalkinthepark.org.au, clicking donate and typing ‘Team Kelvin’ into the search.
Alternatively cash donations can be left at Royal Freemasons or you can contact Anne directly on 0402 120 523 to make a donation.
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