Date set for Pocono Fox Trot 5K, a fundraiser for Parkinson’s

Organizers Marcia Guberman and Rolland Grote have the disease and are fighting for a cure

Published Apr 11, 2018 at 5:52 pm (Updated Apr 11, 2018)

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Marcia Guberman

“I am thrilled by this recognition of the commissioners because anything we can do to raise awareness about this disease is a plus for those afflicted and their families. I personally have three dear friends that are struggling with the disease that includes motor symptoms, depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Each of these friends has committed to making a difference, and I am proud to be a part of their team.”

Maryanne Monte, 5K volunteer

By Marilyn Rosenthal

MILFORD — The commissioners of Pike and Wayne Counties have proclaimed June as Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

Approximately one million Americans have Parkinson’s Disease, and that number is expected to double by 2050. The increasing proportion of the aging population in our region, including Sussex County, brings these statistics home to us.

But there is hope and help in our own backyard, thanks to the efforts of Marcia Guberman and co-chair Rolland Grote. The fourth annual Pike/Wayne Pocono Fox Trot 5K for Parkinson’s Research will be held Saturday, June 16, at the Ann St. Park, in Milford, to raise money for the search for a cure.

Guberman discovered she had Parkinson’s Disease in 2013, when there were no resources available in Pike County. Being a resourceful businesswoman, she started the Pocono Fox Trot 5K run with Grote, who also has Parkinson’s, and with the support of her husband, Erwin Guberman.

Parkinson's usually starts in one’s late 50s or early 60s, Guberman said, although early onset can start in one’s 30s. In an effort to help others, Guberman bravely shares her symptoms and feelings about the disease.

“One of the major symptoms is tremors. I have them predominantly in my left hand, arm, and leg," she said. "But as the disease progresses, they are beginning on my right side. I compensate by sitting on my hands or holding them. Other symptoms I have are insomnia, depression, and anxiety.

"I try not to look into the future too much and the emotional support I receive from my husband, three children, and six grandchildren really helps with that.”

$92K and countingSince 2015, with the community’s support, the Pocono Fox Trot 5K has donated $92,000 to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research to help find a cure. Last year alone, they contributed $40,000, and this year’s goal is $50,000. Yet, the National Institutes of Health contributed only about 1 percent for Parkinson’s research, while the actual combined direct and indirect costs of the disease are estimated to be in excess of $25 billion in the United States alone.

Maryanne Monte, volunteer par excellence and chair of the Greater Pike Community Foundation, is also a volunteer for the 5K run.

“I am thrilled by this recognition of the commissioners because anything we can do to raise awareness about this disease is a plus for those afflicted and their families," she said. "I personally have three dear friends that are struggling with the disease that includes motor symptoms, depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Each of these friends has committed to making a difference, and I am proud to be a part of their team.”

This 5K is not a somber event. Rather, it is a lot of fun and gives hope to all who have Parkinson's. It happens rain or shine. Anyone can participate, and there is music, hamburgers and hotdogs, raffles, and a resource fair.

The Pocono Fox Trot 5K organization is looking for corporate sponsors, donations, and participants. Donations are accepted at PoconoFoxTrot5k.org or by mail to Pocono Fox Trot 5K, Box 2776, Gold Key Lakes, Milford PA 18337.