Educational Events

Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation (Spring)

Virtual ( Zoom )
12:30 pm to 1:30 pm EST
FREE
REGISTER FOR VIRTUAL
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Join us for the Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation designed for new volunteers and those interested in learning more about how to get involved with the Foundation in the Georgia Chapter!

You will have the opportunity to meet your chapter staff and fellow volunteers at this meeting. We will also share the steps to becoming a Parkinson's Foundation Ambassador and what you can do to help make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson's once you have completed your training. Finally you will hear about upcoming events in the chapter and get connected. 

Speakers

Sadie McCoy
Manager, Volunteer Engagement

Annie Long
Senior Director Community Education & Outreach
Southeast Region

Event Schedule

Welcome and Housekeeping

  5 minutes

Introductions

  20 minutes

Presentation

  35 minutes
Educational Events

Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation (Fall)

Virtual ( Zoom )
12:30 pm to 1:30 pm EST
FREE
REGISTER FOR VIRTUAL
Woman on a call waving to her laptop

Join us for the Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation designed for new volunteers and those interested in learning more about how to get involved with the Foundation in the Georgia Chapter!

You will have the opportunity to meet your chapter staff and fellow volunteers at this meeting. We will also share the steps to becoming a Parkinson's Foundation Ambassador and what you can do to help make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson's once you have completed your training. Finally you will hear about upcoming events in the chapter and get connected. 

Speakers

Sadie McCoy
Manager, Volunteer Engagement

Annie Long
Senior Director Community Education & Outreach
Southeast Region

Event Schedule

Welcome and Housekeeping

    5 minutes

Introductions

  20 minutes

Presentation

  35 minutes

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Educational Events

Fitness Counts

11:00 am to 2:30 pm EST
Free
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Studies have demonstrated that exercise has brain and body benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease. Exercise can help to improve Parkinson’s symptoms and help individuals do the activities they enjoy. Learn that there are benefits to movement at all stages of Parkinson’s and that it is never too late to start.

Speakers

Karyssa Silva OTR/L, CLT
Director of Rehabilitation
Aldersbridge Physical Therapy and Wellness Center

Timothy VanHorn, PT
Aldersbridge Physical Therapy and Wellness Center

Kenneth Vinacco, PT, DPT
Rhode Island Hospital

Suja Sadasivan, MD
Director of Movement Disorders
St. Elizabeth's Medical Center/Boston Medical Center Health System

There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends and the community.

Gold Sponsor

Acadia

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Fact Sheets

Veterans and Parkinson’s

More than 110,000 veterans with Parkinson’s disease (PD) receive care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help veterans and their loved ones live well with PD. To find resources tailored to the veteran community, visit Parkinson.org/Veterans or call the Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, neurological disorder that occurs when the cells in the brain that make dopamine start to die. The rate of progression and symptoms are different for everyone. Movement symptoms can include tremors, slowness of movement, stiffness and problems with balance. Non-movement symptoms can include fatigue, depression, anxiety and problems with sleep.

There are nearly one million people in the U.S. living with PD and an additional 90,000 people are newly diagnosed each year. There is no cure for Parkinson’s, but treatment can improve quality of life. Treatment options include medication, exercise, rehabilitation therapies (physical, occupational and speech therapies), surgical options and a healthy diet.

Medical Care and Treatment

Many U.S. veterans with Parkinson’s can access specialized medical care and financial assistance through the VA. The VA provides Parkinson’s treatment at Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education & Clinical Centers (PADRECCs) and their Associated Sites. To learn more, visit www.parkinsons.va.gov or call 1-800-949-1001 x205769. To apply for VA healthcare, visit www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply or call 1-877-222-8387.

Agent Orange and Toxic Exposures

In some cases, developing Parkinson's can be associated with exposure to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service. Agent Orange was a powerful herbicide used in Vietnam from 1962 to 1975, but was also used and stored in other locations. Veterans may be eligible for a free environmental health registry evaluation, disability compensation and other VA benefits. To learn more, visit Parkinson.org/Veterans or call the Veteran Benefits Administration at 1-800-827-1000.

Veterans Benefits

Veterans living with Parkinson’s may qualify for financial benefit programs to help cope with financial challenges. Service members, veterans and families can apply for various VA benefits by:

  • Applying online at www.eBenefits.va.gov.

  • Working with an accredited representative or VSO. Federal law prohibits attorneys and others from charging a fee to assist with the VA application.

  • Calling the VA’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-827-1000, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Caring for a Veteran with Parkinson’s

The care partner experience is unique to every individual. The Parkinson’s Foundation and VA have resources specially designed for those caring for a veteran with Parkinson’s. Regardless of whether you are early in the journey, caring from afar or supporting a loved one in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s, we have the resources to help. Learn more at Parkinson.org/Veterans.

Hospital Safety

Every person living with Parkinson’s should be prepared for a possible hospitalization including veterans and their care partners. Visit Parkinson.org/HospitalSafety to learn more and order or download your free Hospital Safety Guide.

Mental Health

Mental health concerns like depression and anxiety are common in people with PD. They can be the result of living with a chronic condition, but they can also be a symptom of the disease itself and changes in the brain. Be aware of these symptoms and do not hesitate to talk to your doctor. Keep the Veterans Crisis Line number nearby, just in case: dial 988, then press 1 or text 838255.

Fundraising Events

2026 Big Sur International Marathon Weekend

6:45 am to 1:00 pm PDT
Participant running in Big Sur race

The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 Big Sur International Marathon Weekend. By signing up to run as a Parkinson's Champion you commit to raising funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation, and in return you get access to a free entry (bib) to the race in addition to tons of other fun benefits and perks. Click here to register to run. 

Fundraising Commitments:

  • Marathon - $2,000
  • 11-miler - $1,500

**If you already purchased a bib and want to join us as an Honorary Athlete please email us at Run4PD@Parkinson.org

 

The Big Sur International Marathon is a destination race like no other. Whether you are running 26.2 or the 11 miler up the California coast you will see what makes this tiny community so unique. Towering redwoods, crashing waves, coastal mountains and verdant pastures are featured on this bucket list course. 

Are you looking for a fun way to volunteer for the Parkinson's Foundation & raise your voice while raising awareness? Come out and cheer on our incredible athletes! Learn more and apply at Parkinson.org/ChampionsCheer.

If you have questions, send us an email at Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Big Sur Marathon Homepage.
 

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Fundraising Events

Community Walk Rockford

10:00 am to 1:00 pm CDT
Free
Group of people going through the finish line at a Moving Day Walk

Get out and move with your community! Every dollar raised supports the Parkinson’s Foundation mission to make life better for people affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD). At Moving Day Community Walks across the country, we’re fighting Parkinson’s and celebrating movement — proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms — and we’re doing it together. The Moving Day Community Walk Program is a complement to the Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s. These walks are family-friendly and help the Foundation make life better for people with PD.

The Community Walk program offers volunteers an opportunity to organize a walk in their own community that does not have a Moving Day event. The program leverages the personal experiences and community leadership of passionate volunteers to promote Parkinson’s awareness and raise funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Learn more about bringing an event to your area

Upcoming Events

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Fundraising Events

Community Walk Piedmont Fayette

8:30 am to 11:00 pm EST
FREE
Group of people going through the finish line at a Moving Day Walk

Get out and move with your community! Every dollar raised supports the Parkinson’s Foundation mission to make life better for people affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD). At Moving Day Community Walks across the country, we’re fighting Parkinson’s and celebrating movement — proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms — and we’re doing it together. The Moving Day Community Walk Program is a complement to the Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s. These walks are family-friendly and help the Foundation make life better for people with PD.

The Community Walk program offers volunteers an opportunity to organize a walk in their own community that does not have a Moving Day event. The program leverages the personal experiences and community leadership of passionate volunteers to promote Parkinson’s awareness and raise funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Learn more about bringing an event to your area

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Educational Events

Let's Talk About It

10:00 am to 3:00 pm EST
FREE
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Let's Talk About It: Medications, Research, Memory & Anxiety

Hosted by the Parkinson’s Foundation Mid-Atlantic Chapter & Acts Country House

There are many non-motor challenges associated with Parkinson’s disease that may not always be easy to discuss. With a focus on Medications, Research, Memory & Anxiety, this program will provide strategies for coping and talking about it with healthcare providers or loved ones. Learn comprehensive insights with a focused discussion, presentations, and Q&A panel with our speakers.

Speakers:
Whitley Aamodt, MD, MPH, MSCE 
Assistant Professor of Neurology  
Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center 
University of Pennsylvania

Muhaimin Id'Deen, PharmD
Jesus Arriaga, OHI
Clinical Pharmacists, Neurology Specialty Pharmacy - Christiana Care Health System

Roseanne D. Dobkin, PhD
Associate Professor of Psychiatry
Rutgers

Lanny Edelsohn, MD
Retired Neurologist - Christiana Care Health System

Deborah Heald
ACTS Country House Rock Steady Boxing Trainer

Check-in and resource fair starts at 10 a.m.; Program starts 11:00 a.m.
Attendance is free. Parking is available onsite

There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their families, friends, and the community.
 

A Collaboration with Acts Country House in Wilmington, DE

Country House - Acts Retirement | Wilmington DE

Gold Sponsor:

More to Parkinson's

Event Sponsors:

Amneal logo
Abbott
Supernus

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Videos & Webinars

Expert Briefing: Addressing the Challenge of Apathy in Parkinson's

September 11, 2024

Apathy can significantly impact the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). This invisible symptom can make it difficult to maintain interest in daily activities and to effectively manage PD symptoms. Apathy can be frustrating for people with Parkinson’s, care partners and loved ones, but understanding it as a symptom and finding ways to cope with it are key to ensuring a good quality of life.

Download Slides

Presenter

Aaron C. Malina, PhD, ABPP
Clinical Neuropsychology 
Northwestern Medicine-Lake Forest Hospital
A Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence

My PD Story

Tru Niagen selfie
Family Members

Tru Niagen

Finding Strength, Hope, and Purpose 

When I think of the words courage and strength, I think of my beautiful mom. Her name is Deanna and at her wise age of 77, she still manages to find ways to inspire me. She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) a few years ago after my parents retired and moved to a little beach town in the coast of Ecuador. But you never know what being diagnosed really means until you actually face it. 

The first time I saw my mom after her diagnosis, PD became very real. Seeing her unable to control the tremors and drag her feet made her seem so frail. I felt hopeless but my mom doesn’t give up easily and every day she finds ways to feel like herself. 

Overcoming the Challenges 

To say that witnessing my mom’s battle with PD from thousands of miles away is difficult, is an understatement. I only see my mom once a year and through the physical distance is challenging, our emotional bond has only gotten stronger. 

I’m grateful for the small ways I can support her even from afar. Despite everything she’s endured since her diagnosis, my mom refuses to let Parkinson’s define her and embraces every day with a positive attitude. She shares her story to bring awareness and help those who also need the strength not to give up. 

My Advice

I am not equipped to offer advice to anyone newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s, but as someone watching her mom manage PD, I can say that showing kindness and patience can be the best act of love. Simple things like signing your name, walking and even talking can be difficult for people with PD. When I’m with my mom I do things at her pace. When we’re on the phone, I take the time to really listen. 

Proud of Our Supportive Community 

My employer ChromaDex, makers of Tru Niagen, is a pioneer in healthy aging research and a proud sponsor of the Parkinson’s Foundation and I love how supportive they’ve been of my involvement in Parkinson’s initiatives. Working at ChromaDex and having direct access to scientific research on NAD+ has helped me better understand the science behind cellular health and how lifestyle stressors may affect the way we age. It’s given me a new perspective and further motivation to find ways to help my mom. 

Through the Parkinson’s Foundation, my mom is able to use their online mobility and education classes since they’re available in multiple languages, including Spanish. These resources have proven to be especially valuable for my mom. 

My friend and colleague Suhad, whose father was also affected by PD before his passing in 2015, has joined me as a Parkinson’s Champion to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s research. As we prepare for our 10K run at the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend event in Anaheim, CA, we are most appreciative for all the physical abilities we have that allow us to run and honor our parents today.

Explore the many ways you can support the Parkinson’s Foundation today!

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