Amy Louise Ruffle and Parkinson’s advocacy

For Amy Louise Ruffle – actor, producer, comedian and ambassador for the Shake It Up Australia Foundation – the motivation to contribute comes from a deeply personal place: supporting a loved one living with Parkinson’s disease. Inspired by her father Rob, Ruffle has turned her compassion into action by raising awareness for a cause close to her heart.

A personal drive to make a difference

“I was inspired to work with the Shake It Up Australia Foundation in support of my dad Rob, who lives with Parkinson’s,” Ruffle shares. “There is so much we can’t control with degenerative conditions, and as loved ones, we can feel helpless and hopeless. I was driven to contribute in the way I could to support my dad and the foundation’s broader mission.”

This commitment to helping – even in the face of uncertainty – is a testament to Ruffle’s determination. Her involvement is not just a show of solidarity for her father but a beacon of hope for others impacted by Parkinson’s disease.

Central to Ruffle’s work is The Shake It Up Show – a podcast dedicated to amplifying the voices of those in the Parkinson’s community. “The podcast speaks to people from all walks of life affected by Parkinson’s – whether living with the disease, supporting someone with it or working in the medical field,” she explains. “I believe we learn and connect through story. Highlighting individual experiences, learning from each other and amplifying the hard work being done is so important.”

The podcast has become a vital tool for raising awareness and fostering connection. Each episode informs listeners and motivates them to support the foundation’s mission: funding research, improving diagnosis timelines and equipping people to better face Parkinson’s challenges.

Memorable moments of impact

“As part of the podcast, I’ve had the privilege of regularly interviewing my dad. We’ve spoken about the progress of Parkinson’s, new strategies he’s trying and his fundraising efforts,” Ruffle says. “It’s been an incredible gift to share those conversations with him. Seeing him share so bravely and candidly with the audience is deeply moving. Knowing his experience might help someone else is amazing.”

Her father’s willingness to step out of his comfort zone – even appearing as a video guest at the 2024 Insight in Parkinson’s Conference – has been a source of pride and inspiration. These moments underscore the ripple effect of personal storytelling in building community and driving change.

Ruffle also finds strength in others’ stories. “I’m lucky that the guests I speak to on the show are resilient. They’re passionate about finding good in their situations,” she reflects. “It’s inspiring to witness their philosophy. When things feel discouraging, I think about how any one of my guests would approach it, and it shifts my outlook.”

A recurring theme in Ruffle’s work and life is the importance of community. “Community is everything. Modern life encourages us to go at it solo, but we’re social creatures who thrive in groups. Things are easier, more meaningful and satisfying with the support of a community.”

A vision for change

When asked about her vision, Ruffle’s response is both grounded and profound.

“I’m smart enough to know I’m not smart enough to create the world I wish we had,” she says with humility. “The only way to build that world is through small acts every day – fuelled by empathy and kindness. If you can leave a room a better place, leave a conversation positively and make environmentally conscious choices, you’re already on the right path.”

Ruffle’s journey with the Shake It Up Australia Foundation shows that impactful change begins with personal commitment and small, meaningful actions. Through storytelling, advocacy and community-building, she creates ripples of hope – one podcast episode at a time.

As Shake It Up Australia Foundation continues working towards breakthroughs in Parkinson’s research, Ruffle’s efforts remind us of the power of connection – proving that even in the face of challenges, we can inspire, inform and motivate each other to keep moving forwards.