Often associated with tremors and physical decline, Parkinson’s disease can first appear in subtle ways, something one Newcastle family is highlighting this April.

For Steph Long, the signs appeared suddenly in her mum, Liana.

Returning home from an overseas trip in 2022, Steph said she immediately sensed something wasn’t right.

“I saw mum as soon as we got off the plane and we were just like… something’s not right,” she said.

Once outgoing and social, Liana had become anxious, withdrawn and reluctant to leave the house, leaving the family searching for answers.

Months of GP visits brought little clarity, with the family at one point fearing she may have suffered a stroke due to changes in her coordination.

It was not until an appointment with a neurologist in Sydney that she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

Steph said the moment was difficult to accept, while for Liana the emotional impact took longer to process.

“I was in shock… and then denial for a couple of years,” the latter said.

While Parkinson’s is often linked to movement, Liana’s early symptoms were psychological, including anxiety and weight loss.

Living with the condition has since reshaped daily life, requiring patience and adjustment from the whole family.

Steph said even simple interactions can be affected, describing moments where responses do not always connect in the same way.

Despite this, Liana has continued working as a dental assistant, gradually reducing her hours while staying connected to the job she loves.

“I’ll do it as long as I can,” she said.

Support from family and friends has been key, especially on more difficult days.

“When I have a down day, I just ring somebody up and someone’s there to listen to me cry or just laugh or actually just do nothing, just be there for me,” Liana explained.

Out of that uncertainty, Steph created the Good Vibrations Walk, initially as a way to encourage her mum to stay active and give the family something positive to focus on.

The event has since grown into an annual community fundraiser, reconnecting Liana with friends and bringing together others affected by Parkinson’s.

Now in its third year, the walk will return on 11 April for World Parkinson’s Day from Southy Canteen on Shortland Esplanade, raising funds for the Shake It Up Australia Foundation.

Steph said the community response has been overwhelming, with many sharing their own experiences and offering support.

As awareness grows, the family hopes their story encourages greater understanding and compassion.

“I just hope people show kindness,” Steph said.

“Because you never really know what someone’s going through.”

Liana, despite her condition, still stays positive.

“I’m not looking to let it beat me,” she said.

The community are encouraged to join the Good Vibrations Walk, register a ‘P’- themed fundraiser or donate through the Shake It Up Australia Foundation website.

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