Mark's Story

Mark Mickan, a name synonymous with grit and triumph on the football field as a former SANFL premiership West Adelaide coach and Adelaide Crows club champion, is now championing a different fight - the battle against Parkinson's.

Mark's journey with Parkinson's didn't begin with his own diagnosis, but much earlier in 1984. That year, his father received the same diagnosis, casting a long shadow over the family. Mark watched as his father bravely grappled with the debilitating disease. This early exposure left an indelible mark, shaping his understanding of the challenges and impact of Parkinson's.

Despite a lifetime dedicated to peak physical fitness as a professional athlete and coach, Mark too found himself facing the unthinkable in 2016. At the age of 55, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's. The news was a stark contrast to his athletic past, a cruel irony for someone who has always relied on his body's strength and precision. Mark experienced debilitating symptoms including tremors, stiffness, fatigue and depression. "I just wanted it all to go away,"  Mark admits. But gradually, Mark's instinct to retreat and protect his privacy turned to thoughts of what he could do to make a tangible difference.  "I realised keeping this a secret wasn't fair - not to myself, and certainly not to the Parkinson's community."

In 2019, a significant breakthough arrived in Mark's journey: Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery. This life-changing procedure dramatically controls tremors, and provides renewed energy and a greater sense of independence. The surgery was a testament to the advancements in Parkinson's care and offered a tangible improvement to his quality of life.

Even with the success of DBS, Mark understands the ongoing need for proactive management. He remains committed to regular physical activity, including dedicated workouts at the Brian x Body Fitness Studio. His dedication proves the profound power of excercise in managing Parkinson's symptoms and maintaining overall well-being.

Mark draws immense strength from fellow advocates, particularly Neale Daniher, who bravely battles Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Daniher's unwavering spirit and tireless efforts inspire Mark to continue his own fight, speaking out and pushing for progress in Parkinson's research and care. Mark's work through Pedal to Fight Parkinson's has provided essential funds towards transformative research and bought us all one step closer to where Parkinson's is no longer a fear.

Mark Mickan's story is an inspiring testament to resilience, transforming his personal adversity into a passionate mission, dedicated to improving lives, driving crucial research, and building a stronger, more supportive community for those affected by Parkinson's. His journey is a powerful reminder that even in the face of immense challenges, hope and advocacy can shine brightly.

"If I can use whatever platform I have to raise awareness and give others hope, that's where I need to be."

Pedal to Fight Parkinson's stands as a testament to Mark's dedication, raising vital funds for Parkinson's research and care. Mark is calling on his friends, past and present football players, and communities to join him in this critical endeavour. Will you join Mark and pedal to fight Parkinson's? Gather your team and take on the Pedal to Fight Parkinson’s 24hr challenge, joining Mark in the fight. Register Now!

Where the money goes

Pedal to Fight Parkinson’s is an event proudly supported by The Hospital Research Foundation Group and the SANFL.

100% of funds raised at Pedal to Fight Parkinson's goes directly to advancing Parkinson's research and delivering essential services for the Parkinson's community.

Your donations will help support people with Parkinson's from recently diagnosed through to advanced Parkinson's, along with family, carers and health professionals. Every donation makes an impact! Your support will help:

• Fund ground breaking research towards a Parkinson's cure
• Provide critical health services like Brian x Body Fitness Studio that promote independence, mental health and wellbeing
• Expand access to therapy, education and excercise that help people live well with Parkinson's

The Hospital Research Foundation Group exists to create a healthy community for every Australian by funding life-changing medical research and patient care services.

Together, we are delivering real impact, right now in over 60 areas of disease and illness through life-changing medical research, hospital care and health services for our community. Thanks to our commercial business activities, including our Home Lottery, 100% of your donations , plus more, goes directly to life-changing research.

If I can use whatever platform I have to raise awareness and give others hope, that's where I need to be."

- Mark Mickan. Living with Parkinson's