Sharon Dodds is many things: a daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunty, grandparent, sportswoman, businesswoman, and loyal friend. At 60, her life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2022.
For those who know Sharon, the diagnosis was hard to comprehend. As she says:
“Someone who does triathlons doesn’t suddenly say to you – oh by the way I’ve got Parkinson’s – so it was quite shocking for people to align those two things…”
But Sharon has never been one to step back from a challenge. Instead, she’s chosen to channel her energy, determination, and love of sport into making a difference.
Many will also recognise Sharon from her appearance in the ONE-IN-37 documentary, where she openly shared her Parkinson’s journey to raise awareness and inspire others.
Sharon’s Pedal to Phoenix will cover 1,657 kms. Starting her ride in San Francisco on Monday, 4th May 2026, Sharon will travel down the West Coast, all the way to Phoenix, Arizona, where she will arrive at the World Parkinsons Congress on Friday, 22nd May 2026! Her ride will take her through some of the most iconic and demanding landscapes in the world:
The cycling group consists of 25 people with Parkinson’s from 11 different countries including USA, Canada, UK, Spain, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Germany, Australia, Finland and only 1 Kiwi!
This ride reflects not only a physical test, but also Sharon’s relentless commitment to fighting Parkinson’s. For a New Zealand comparison, this is like cycling the entire length of the country and then some.
Sharon’s Pedal to Phoenix is more than a ride – it’s a mission. Every kilometre represents resilience, hope, and the fight to advance Parkinson’s research.
By supporting Sharon, you’re not just backing one woman’s determination. You’re helping Cure Parkinson’s NZ fund vital research to bring us closer to a cure.
Sharon’s ride is self-funded so 100% of the money raised goes directly to Cure Parkinson’s NZ.
Every contribution, big or small makes an impact. Choose a preset amount ($25, $50, $100 etc.) or enter your own, and watch your donation help Sharon reach her $100,000 goal!
Sharon is calling on New Zealand businesses to get behind her journey. Whether through financial sponsorship or in-kind support (like rider fuel scroggin, energy products and wellness gear), your brand can power Sharon’s ride and stand proudly alongside the Parkinson’s community.
Proudly Supported by
Spread the word. Connect with our socials, share our content and create your own, tagging us in to raise more awareness so Sharon’s story reaches more people. Together, we can fuel her fight.
Follow Sharon’s fundraising goal with our live progress tracker. Every dollar raised brings us closer to breakthroughs in Parkinson’s research.
🎯 Goal: $100,000
Sharon will also be sharing updates, photos, and videos from her training and ride – keeping you part of the journey every step of the way.
“Sharon embodies resilience and hope. Her Coastal Crusader Challenge will not only raise funds but also awareness for Parkinson’s in New Zealand and beyond. We’re proud to stand with her.”
Sharon is ready to ride. With your support, she can turn her challenge into lasting change for the Parkinson’s community.
Sponsor Sharon’s ride today – every dollar and product fuels her fight against Parkinson’s!
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