Mary's story was featured in the Orlando Sentinel. Click HERE to read her full story.
Fundraising with Mary Tabler
Mary was diagnosed with Parkinson’s almost 3 years ago and lives with her husband Pete. She learned about the Walk through research and attending educational seminars including the Partners in Parkinson’s event when it was held in Tampa. Shortly after, Mary learned about an organization here in Orlando (Parkinson Association of Central Florida) helping those with Parkinson’s and decided to reach out. As soon as she knew there would be a Walk in the spring of 2017 Mary decided she wanted to be involved.
She first created her team and talked to some of her friends who fundraise for other organizations. They encouraged her to reach out to family members and friends to support her fundraising efforts. Each of them was very generous in their donations and enjoyed showing support. Mary was humbled by the response she received from her fellow crafters at St. Stephens in Tuscawilla and had 90% of them contribute to her team.
Like many, when Mary was first diagnosed she felt helpless knowing the progression would continue as time went on. She feared that there would come a day when she would no longer be able to walk. Through Mary’s research she was able to learn about different medications, treatments and exercise that could help slow the progression. Fundraising is a huge key to unlocking all of the information we know today.
Through the Walk for Parkinson registration Mary found it was easy to keep track of donations because she would receive an email each time someone had contributed to her team. Each donation was also posted to her team page listing those who showed their support. Each time she received a donation she used the built in email feature to send a quick thank you, then followed up with a phone call or was able to thank them in person.
Last year, Mary Tabler was ranked 4th on the top teams list and raised a little over $3,000! This year Mary has set her goal at $5,000 and has already created her team. Along with the event of the Walk, she has invited friends from out of town and plans on celebrating her 70th birthday. Another personal goal Mary has set for herself is to continue to pursue her physical therapy and walk this next Walk. The previous year her husband pushed her in her wheelchair because of serious pain in her right hip. At the moment Mary is walking and plans on continuing her progress to accomplish her goal.