UNMC Skate-a-thon for Parkinson’s spells fun for all

You might call it a 24-hour polar bash.

 

The 2011 UNMC Skate-a-thon for Parkinson’s kicks off at 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 28, at the UNMC ice rink and wraps up 24 hours later with closing ceremonies.

 

Between the opening and closing ceremonies, the ice rink will be the site of a wide variety of activities including:

·                     A pajama skating party;

·                     A 1 a.m. on-ice reenactment of Michael Jackson’s "Thriller" video;

·                     A 2 a.m. "Shiver Skate" — an event designed in the spirit of a "Polar Plunge" in which brave souls attempt to skate 10 laps in very light clothing;

·                     A 4 a.m. fiesta featuring breakfast burritos and sombreros;

·                     Multiple figure skating exhibitions;

·                     An hour of skating games during which winners receive prizes; and

·                     The hokey pokey, couples skate and an assortment of skating games.  

 

There also will be activities off the ice, including:

·                     A Friday night autograph session with University of Nebraska at Omaha hockey players;

·                     Horse and carriage rides on Saturday;

·                     Food and apparel available for sale throughout; and

·                     An ice-cream eating contest on Saturday.

 

 

The skate-a-thon is a fundraiser to support Parkinson’s research. For $10, skaters, get skate rental and access to the ice rink. Proceeds benefit Parkinson’s research by two UNMC scientists – John  Bertoni, M.D., Ph.D., and Howard Gendelman, M.D.

 

Other funds will go to:

·                     The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research; and

·                     The PHD Program (Parkinson’s Health Development), a local program that offers affordable exercises and activities to improve the quality of life for persons with Parkinson’s.

 

The event is open to skaters and non-skaters. You can register online or make a pledge at www.phdomaha.org or by e-mail at info@phdomaha.org, or by fax at 402-934-6074. Walk-in registration also will be available at the event.