Mr Lourey, a former chief executive of Kyneton District Health Service, retired after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's.

He is now on the board of Parkinson's Victoria and is an active ambassador.

"It's a really good cause and it's not one of the high-profile diseases, but it's the second major disease after dementia," he said. "It's one that has been overlooked in the public's mind."

Mr Lourey's life was disrupted by the diagnosis in 2004. Along with the emotional and physical changes he faced, his family's finances were ruined.

"I was 52 when I was diagnosed, and some people would say that is at the height of your career. I definitely did not plan to retire at 52," he said.

In his role as ambassador, Mr Lourey often talks to community groups and organisations on how the disease affected his life.

Parkinson's disease is typically prevalent among older people.

"I had personal goals, I've always wanted to travel. But when you suffer from a chronic disease, it's hard. I've tried to live with it rather than fighting it, and try to keep positive and never look too far ahead of yourself," he said.

As part of his fund-raising efforts, Mr Lourey last year jumped on a bicycle and took part in the Vietnam Cycle Challenge along with a group of people raising public awareness and funds for Parkinson's.

He will soon undergo deep brain stimulation, a last-resort treatment that aims to subside physical characteristics of the disease.

People have also been urged to support Parkinson's 2010 Unity Walk, the largest fund-raising and awareness-raising event of its kind in Victoria.

The four-kilometre walk on August 29 is along the paved footpath of the Yarra River and has a symbolic meaning as Parkinson's is a movement disorder and walking supports the goal of staying fit, healthy and active.

To register for the walk, visit www.unitywalk.com.au

It costs $25 to take part, with registration from 8.30am. The walk begins at 11am.

Mr Lourey and his wife Dianne will be on a holiday in Ireland at the time of the walk.

But he has vowed to walk in Ireland and raise funds for the disease.