26th Annual Blazing Toward a Cure Educational Symposium
9:00 am to 12:00 pm CDT
FREE
This event has reached capacity. To be added to the waitlist, please email tnky@parkinson.org.
Please join the Vanderbilt Medical Center and Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence team for the 26th annual Blazing Toward a Cure educational symposium. Please register for this no cost educational opportunity.
This program will be held at the Vanderbilt Student Life Center (Nashville, TN), where free valet parking will be available. Doors open at 8:00 a.m. and the program will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. Continental breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m.
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.
Expert Speakers
Thomas L. Davis, MD
Division Chief/Movement Disorders,VUMC
Through guided breathwork and visualization, you will be encouraged to step into the present by releasing thoughtful roadblocks and opening your mind to new opportunities and experiences that can assist in managing Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
In the brisk winds of the Windy City, my world shifted at the tender age of 12 when my mother received a life-altering diagnosis — aggressive Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease (YOPD) at just 39. Witnessing her daily struggles and noticing the subtle changes in her laughter and zest for life, I couldn't comprehend the gravity of the situation back then. Little did I know, this pivotal moment would set the stage for a transformative journey.
Our family relocated to the city that never sleeps, NYC, just as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. At 14, I found my mother grappling with the challenges of Parkinson's without her usual support system. As a remedy for my own challenges and a way to support my mother, I delved into cross-country running, seeking solace on outdoor tracks. I also initiated my mother's "marathon" training, a seemingly audacious feat given her struggle to walk a few steps.
She began to receive expert Parkinson’s care at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence. Her doctors and others in our new Parkinson's disease (PD) community told us to reach out to the Parkinson’s Foundation. We quickly took advantage of online classes, organized walks, fundraising events and downloadable books. They have incredibly useful resources and information for both people with YOPD and PD.
She raised thousands for Parkinson’s Foundation when she ran as a Parkinson’s Champion! Crossing the finish line at the NYC marathon in nine odd hours with an Achilles guide, became a powerful testament to her resilience and determination, chronicled by the Brian Grant Foundation in "We are the Elites.”
Fueled by a desire to empower not only my mother but countless others facing similar battles, I committed myself to making a difference. Last year, at age 16, I launched Moversandshakers.info, a website providing information, community and hope for people with Parkinson's. The platform features weekly podcasts, lifestyle tools, clinical trial details, and QR-code-based PD training for first responders, offering a comprehensive resource and community hub for patients and caregivers alike. Additionally, I design and distribute free PD button kits and lanyards for public awareness of hidden disabilities.
The genesis of Movers and Shakers emerged from qualitative research conducted with those who attended the 6th World Parkinson Congress in Barcelona, Spain where people with PD and caregivers helped identify research and support gaps especially, for those in marginalized communities. Recognizing the need for systemic change, awareness and education, I transitioned from digital platform creator to founder of HOPE (Health, Outreach, and Parkinson’s Empowerment) in the winter of 2023. HOPE focuses on building a register of people with Parkinson's and advocating for policy change. This initiative aims to connect local PD communities, targeting under-represented minorities, for events, connections, and trials.
Currently, my relentless effort to push for policy change involves engaging elected New Jersey Representatives at the Capitol to co-sponsor the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act (H.R.2365/S.1064). Having successfully garnered support from Senator Booker and Congresswoman Wexton last year, I am now in negotiations with other NJ congressional members for their vote and support.
My mom's diagnosis, a seismic event in our lives, became a catalyst for meaningful change. It transformed me into a compassionate advocate, a dedicated website creator, a social justice champion, and, above all, a son fighting for his mother's future and the futures of countless others entangled in the clutches of Parkinson's.
The journey continues, marked by a sincere promise to her tribe, that innovation, resilience, voice, advocacy and an unwavering commitment to fostering hope will always be my passion and priority.
Check-in & the Resource Fair (for in-person attendees) begins at 9:00 a.m. CDT
Living with Parkinson’s can be challenging, but there are many things you can do to maintain and improve your quality of life. This program will provide you with information to help you find the balance between a proactive approach and wondering what lies ahead.
Expert Speakers
Erin Edmundson, PT, DPT
Huntsville Hospital Parkinson's Care Clinic
Jay van Gerpen, MD, FAAN
Neurology Consultants of Huntsville
Carolina Parker, MD
Neurology Consultants of Huntsville
Brandi Ivey M.Ed, CPPN
Huntsville Hospital Parkinson's Care Clinic
Katelyn Bowden, OT
Huntsville Hospital Parkinson's Care Clinic
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.
9 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Check-in & Resource Fair
10:00 a.m. – 10:10 a.m.
Welcome: Stacey Faber
Senior Director, Community Education & Outreach, Southeast
Parkinson’s Foundation
10:10 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.
Optimizing Your Parkinson’s Care
Carolina Parker, MD,
Neurology Consultants of Huntsville
10:40 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Question & Answer Session
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Movement Break
Clarissa Sharp, MPT
Traci Aday, LPTA
Parkinson’s Care Clinic, Huntsville Hospital
11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Mind Your Mouth: Speech, Swallowing & Smiles in Parkinson’s
Anitra Ford, MS, CCC-SLP
Huntsville Hospital Therapy Services
12:30 p.m. – 1:10 p.m.
Let’s Get Uncomfortable:
The Parkinson’s Topics We Need to Talk About
Moderated By: Erin Edmunson, PT, DPT
Huntsville Hospital Parkinson’s Care Clinic
Jay Van Gerpen, MD, FAAN
Huntsville Hospital
Brandi Ivey, M.Ed, CPPN, Care Navigator
Parkinson’s Care Clinic, Huntsville Hospital
Kristi Holland, OT
Parkinson’s Care Clinic, Huntsville Hospital
Kristi Holland, OT
Parkinson’s Care Clinic, Huntsville Hospital
Through guided breathwork and visualization, you will be encouraged to step into the present by releasing thoughtful roadblocks and opening your mind to new opportunities and experiences that can assist in managing Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
Parkinson's Disease Program for African American and Latinx Communities
10:00 am to 2:00 pm PDT
FREE
Join Stanford and UCSF for a free educational event for two under-served communities – the African American Parkinson’s community and the Latinx Parkinson’s community. There will be simultaneous sessions (different rooms) in English and Spanish.
Ideally for those diagnosed in the last few years. Family members and friends are welcome and encouraged to join!
Attendance is free, but registration is required and seating is limited. Lunch will be provided.
Expertos en el tratamiento de trastornos del movimiento hablarán en español acerca de los sintomas y el manejo de la enfermedad de Parkinson y se dará información acera de agencias en la comunidad que ofrecen grupos de apoyo y programa de ejercicio.
Este programa es gratuito y está disponible para cualquier persona interesada, incluyendo a las personas con Parkinson y sus familiares, amigos, aliados de cuidado y promotores de salud.
Sponsored by the Parkinson's Foundation and hosted by UCSF Movement Disorders and Neuromodulation Center & Stanford Movement Disorders Center. Both are Parkinson's Foundation Centers of Excellence.
Through guided breathwork and visualization, you will be encouraged to step into the present by releasing thoughtful roadblocks and opening your mind to new opportunities and experiences that can assist in managing Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
Parkinson's 101: What You and Your Family Should Know
3:00 pm to 5:00 pm EST
FREE
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Check-in starts at 2:00 p.m. ET.
This program offers an introduction and basic overview of Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD varies from person to person and changes over time. Discover its causes, common symptoms and available treatments. Learn practical daily living tips to empower you to take charge of your health and to navigate the challenges of living with PD.
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.
This program is hosted by the Parkinson's Foundation Georgia Chapter in partnership with Senior Medicare Patrol.
Through guided breathwork and visualization, you will be encouraged to step into the present by releasing thoughtful roadblocks and opening your mind to new opportunities and experiences that can assist in managing Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
Check-in & the Resource Fair (for in-person attendees) begins at 9:00 a.m. EDT
Living with Parkinson’s can be challenging, but there are many things you can do to maintain and improve your quality of life. This program will provide you with information to help you find the balance between a proactive approach and wondering what lies ahead.
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.
Expert Panelists:
Vanessa Hinson, MD, PhD
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) - A Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence
Nathan DeTurk, MD
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) - A Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence
Courtney Conner, RD
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bluffton
Ellen Glazer, SLP
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bluffton
Renee Bannon, RN, BSN
Encompass Health
Robert Scutta, CSA
Scutta Advocacy Group
Rhonda Hiott
Lowcountry Council of Governments
People with Parkinson's & Care Partner Panelists:
Jay & Marilyn Phillips
Ron Stokes
Scott Rider
Pete & Mary Anne Oliver
Movement Break Provided By:
Rock Steady Boxing Hilton Head
Carter Barrett, RipTide MMA
Participation Options:
Join us in-person at our main symposium location - Creative Church in Hardeeville, SC: Check-in and the Resource Fair start at 9:00 a.m. Lunch will be served immediately following the program.
Join us in-person at an Encompass Viewing Party: If you cannot join us in person in Hardeeville, we encourage you to attend an Encompass Viewing Party (locations outlined below). At a Viewing Party, you can participate in a Resource Fair, watch the livestream, and enjoy refreshments with other members of your local Parkinson's community.
Encompass Viewing Party Locations:
Greenville
Little River
To register for a viewing party, click on the "Register for Virtual" button above and specify which location you will be joining.
Join us online: If you cannot participate in our in-person Symposium or a Viewing Party, you can join us online from home!
This program is hosted by the Parkinson's Foundation Carolinas Chapter in partnership with Encompass Health.
Program Agenda
9:00 a.m.
Check-in & Resource Fair
9:30 a.m.
Welcome (Livestream Begins)
Diana Parrish – Parkinson’s Foundation
Wayne Boutwell, Encompass Health and Rehabilitation Hospital of Bluffton
9:40 a.m.
Expert Panel: Latest Research on Lifestyle Factors and Parkinson’s Outcomes
Moderator: Vanessa Hinson, MD, PhD, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) – A Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence
Courtney Conner, RD, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bluffton
Nathan DeTurk, MD, MUSC
10:20 a.m.
Question & Answer Session
10:40 a.m.
Movement Break
Carter Barrett, Rock Steady Boxing Hilton Head
10:55 a.m.
Living Well with Parkinson’s: Person with Parkinson’s and Care Partner Panel
Moderator: Vanessa Hinson, MD, PhD, MUSC
Jay & Marilyn Phillips
Ron Stokes
Scott Rider
Pete & Mary Anne Oliver
11:25 a.m.
Question & Answer Session
11:40 a.m.
Planning for the Future: Expert Panel
Moderator: Renee Bannon, RN, BSN, Encompass Health
Through guided breathwork and visualization, you will be encouraged to step into the present by releasing thoughtful roadblocks and opening your mind to new opportunities and experiences that can assist in managing Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
Living with Parkinson’s can be challenging, but there are many things you can do to maintain and improve your quality of life. This program will provide you with information to help you find the balance between a proactive approach and wondering what lies ahead.
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. Lunch will be served to those joining us in person.
Featured Speakers:
Marissa Dean, MD
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Ruth K Fredericks, MD
St. Dominic Neuroscience Center
Laurie Mischley, ND, PhD, MPH
Seattle Integrative Medicine
Expert Panelists:
Gil & Gina Kim
Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassadors
Bobbie McLaughlin
Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador
Ashley Ricotta, OTL/R
Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Merry Claire Wardlaw, PT
Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Kelli Priest, SLP
Methodist Rehabilitation Center
For in-person attendees: In-person check-in and vendor visits start at 9:00 a.m. CDT.
For virtual attendees, via Zoom: The live stream starts at 10:00 a.m. CDT.
9:00 a.m.
Check-in & Resource Fair
Zoom Livestream Begins
9:45 a.m.
Welcome Annie Long – Parkinson’s Foundation
10:00 a.m.
What’s in the Parkinson’s Treatment Pipeline Marissa Dean, MD – University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
10:40 a.m.
Question & Answer Session
11:00 a.m.
LSVT BIG & LOUD Movement Break Methodist Rehabilitation Center
11:15 a.m.
Lunch Break & Resource Fair
11:35 a.m.
Mood & Thinking Changes in Parkinson’s Disease Ruth K Fredericks, MD – St. Dominic Neuroscience Center
12:10 p.m.
Question & Answer Session
12:30 p.m.
Living Well with Parkinson’s Panel
Gil & Gina Kim – Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassadors
Bobbie McLaughlin – Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador
Ashley Ricotta, OT, CDRS – Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Merry Claire Wardlaw, PT – Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Kelli Priest, SLP – Methodist Rehabilitation Center
1:00 p.m.
Lifestyle Modification as a Therapeutic Strategy Laurie Mischley, ND, PhD, MPH – Seattle Integrative Medicine
Through guided breathwork and visualization, you will be encouraged to step into the present by releasing thoughtful roadblocks and opening your mind to new opportunities and experiences that can assist in managing Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
I vividly recall the hot summer day in 2001 when my sweet Mom and I sat in the neurologist’s office and heard those life-changing words, "You have Parkinson’s disease." At first, we were in shock and disbelief, but once we had time to process, it felt like the missing puzzle piece had finally been found.
Looking back 10 years prior, there were early signs we missed. Mom would joke about "stubbing her toe" or “dragging her leg” while walking, and we would laugh it off as clumsiness, a trait we shared. She also mentioned feeling tired early in the day and experiencing shoulder pain, but we attributed it to her busy lifestyle, caring for her parents and a toddler, and being active indoors and out.
The diagnosis, though unexpected, brought a strange sense of relief. It gave us a name for the symptoms and a path for treatment. We knew life would change and we were ready to navigate this journey together, one day at a time.
Mom did not let Parkinson’s stop her from doing the things she loved, like painting. She switched from oils to charcoal, pencil, pen and watercolor, adapting to her new reality while keeping her passion alive.
Mom was a talented artist, piano and guitar player, singer/songwriter, poet, genealogist, and so much more. As her Parkinson’s progressed, she required more help with daily tasks, and I embraced the role of caregiving doing my best to honor her independence while attending to her needs. While the journey was not always easy, our faith and love carried us through the physical and emotional challenges.
Sadly, my sweet Mom passed away but her legacy lives on through me. As a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador, I embrace opportunities to share her story to increase awareness, educate, and inspire others.
If Mom were here, she would encourage everyone to not give up, stay active/busy, and continue to pursue your passions recognizing that things might be different, and that’s okay. Make accommodations, listen to your body, and give yourself grace, just as she did with her art.
Mom lived by taking each day as it came, never comparing life before and after Parkinson’s, always staying busy and looking forward. Her final advice was simple yet profound, "If you don’t have peace, find it." Those words guide me every day.
Explore all stages of the care partner journey and practical tips that can help along the way with our resources.
From Passion to Action: 4 Volunteers Making a Difference
Every day at we are grateful for the wonderful volunteers, known as Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassadors, who help make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD).
National Volunteer Week is April 17 to 23, and we want to celebrate and thank all the hard-working volunteers across the globe who spread awareness and improve their PD communities.
There are many ways to get involved and start volunteering, from Moving Day to joining our People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council. Finding the opportunity that fits your abilities and passion is key. Below are four volunteers who did just that, and who are excited to share their stories with you in the hopes that you might also find the volunteer role that works for you!
Rebecca
Volunteer, Brother is living with Parkinson’s
Selfishness is normally considered a negative characteristic, but in this case, I’m proud to be a selfish volunteer for the Parkinson’s Foundation. Luckily, everything I do for the Foundation helps Greg, and vicariously helps others too! I think that’s pretty positive.
Parkinson’s Research Advocates, Mike is Living with Parkinson’s and Angela is his care partner
Back in the day, it was uncommon for older people, especially African Americans, to seek medical attention for physical and mental needs. Now, as a Research Advocate, I can ask questions and help raise awareness for PD. I use this role to spread information about the importance of clinical research and genetic testing.
There are many volunteer roles in the Parkinson’s Foundation and my interest settled on giving presentations in the community. First, I needed to complete the Ambassador training which was very helpful and increased my PD knowledge. My motivation to pass the training quickly became my reality and I became a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador for the Georgia Chapter.
Whether you are interested in becoming a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador like Darrell, a research advocate like Mike & Angela, or speaking to people in your community like Rebecca, we want to hear from you! Get to know more of our volunteers through this special volunteer edition podcast episode.
Complete our volunteer interest form to get started. You can also chat with the volunteer engagement team to help us educate others about PD and connect them to life-saving resources.
