The Parkinson's Foundation is a participating charity for the 2027 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. By signing up to run as a Parkinson's Champion, you commit to raising funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation. In return, you get access to an entry (bib) to the race plus other perks and benefits.
Still need to book your Disney trip, but not sure where to start?
Maggie Cattle with Spirit of Adventure Travel specializes in Disney destinations and can help take the stress out of planning. She’s also passionate about the Parkinson’s community. Her father was diagnosed with PD in 2020, the same month her husband began working at the Parkinson’s Foundation. Email Maggie to inquire & book!
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 Disney World 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. Register to run now at PDChampionsDisneyworld.org.
Goofy's Race and a Half (Half & Marathon) - $2,250
Marathon - $1,500
Half - $1,000
5k/10 - $750
*Do you have your own bib? Do you have a runner under age 18 to register? Please email us at Run4PD@Parkinson.org for special registration instructions.
Close your eyes and dream it – then make those dreams come true with runDisney and the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend. Join Mickey Mouse and friends as you go the distance on your journey across every magical mile. Every course is full of “character” and encouragement as you earn every mile in a weekend filled with four different races, two challenges, and inspiration at every turn (of the course, that is). Dreams do come true with runDisney.
Looking for travel support? Sign up for a free consultation with our wonderful friends at Magical Park Vacations at THIS LINK (whether you end up running with us or not). They have deep knowledge of the parks and traveling with a family member who has Parkinson’s disease.
NOTE: Registration for this race includes access to the Walt Disney World Resort® amusement parks for the race event only. To “ride-the-rides” you would need to purchase a separate ticket to the parks. There may be the opportunity for friends and family to come cheer you on without needing to purchase entry to the park, but this will be announced later by the runDisney organization at their discretion.
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 Utica Boilermaker Race 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.
Fundraising Commitments:
15k - $500
This world-renowned race is often referred to as the country’s best 15K. The Boilermaker 15K is recognized for its entertaining yet challenging course and racing’s best post-race party, hosted by the F.X. Matt Brewing Company, featuring Saranac beer and a live concert! With plenty of water support, strong attention to medical detail, and crowd support like no other race, the Boilermaker 15K is an event worth training and traveling for and should be on every runner’s “must-do” list.
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.
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 AJC Peachtree Road Race. By signing up to run as a Parkinson's Champion, you commit to raising funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation. In return, you receive an entry (bib) to the race.
Fundraising Commitment: $1,000
The AJC Peachtree Road Race is more than a race; it’s a celebration of community, determination, and the spirit of Atlanta. For over half a century, it has brought people from all walks of life together to spend Independence Day in a one-of-a-kind running and walking tradition. The 6.2-mile course takes participants from the streets of Buckhead through Midtown, finishing in Atlanta’s Piedmont Park.
Note: Race weekend may bring high temperatures. Please consult with your doctor to make sure you have a plan to exercise safely in the heat.
Parkinson's Champions Cheer Team
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 athletes along the race course! Learn more and sign up at Parkinson.org/ChampionsCheer.
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
The Parkinson's Foundation hopes to some day be an official charity partner for the Boston Marathon, though we were not accepted for the 2027 race.
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. You can learn more about our program at Run4PD.org.
While we weren’t accepted as an official charity partner for 2027, we are continuing to explore ways to attain some bibs. We are not accepting applications at this time, however we will update this page if that changes.
The Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon and ranks as one of the world's most prestigious road racing events. The Boston Marathon has distinguished itself as a pinnacle event within the sport of road racing by virtue of its traditions, longevity, and method of gaining entry into the race via qualification.
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 Lifetime Chicago Spring Half Marathon. By signing up to run as a Parkinson's Champion, you commit to raising funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation. In return you get access to an entry (bib) to the race plus other perks and benefits.
Fundraising Commitment: $1,000
Celebrate spring at the Life Time Chicago Spring Half Marathon with a scenic lakefront race, fresh lake breezes, and beautiful city views. After the finish, enjoy the Spring Market Festival with brunch, photo ops, live music, a beer garden, and a flower planting station.
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.
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
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.
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
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.”
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
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Registration is now closed as we have reached the venue capacity. We have opened registration to join the waitlist. If a spot becomes available, we will notify those on the waitlist.
Check-in begins at noon and the program starts at 1 p.m. A complimentary box lunch will be provided. Please contact Laura Summers with any dietary requirements.
After many years of good symptom management, Parkinson’s disease may become more challenging. Learn how Parkinson’s symptoms may change over time and new strategies available for managing them.
Speakers from Corewell Health:
R. Ross Coleman, M.D. Movement Disorders Specialist
Luyuan Li, M.D. Functional Neurosurgery
Ashok Sriram, M.D., MS Movement Disorders Specialist
& expert panel
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.
Join us for a practical conversation about the many ways people can contribute to Parkinson's research, from observational studies and genetic research to clinical trials.
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.
What People with Parkinson’s Want Health Professionals to Understand
Finding care for Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be difficult due to a shortage in specialized care, especially for those who live in rural areas. There are one million Americans living with Parkinson’s and only 660 movement disorder specialists currently practicing in the U.S.
With limited access to movement disorders specialists, most people with PD find themselves visiting a general neurologist or primary healthcare provider for their Parkinson’s care. However, across all care settings, people with PD report feeling their healthcare providers may not fully grasp the intricacies and daily challenges that come with Parkinson’s.
The Parkinson’s Foundation is dedicated to educating and training our professionals about best practices in quality PD care. Yet, nobody understands the daily challenges of living with Parkinson’s better than those living with it.
We asked people with Parkinson’s on our social media channels what they wish health professionals understood about living with PD. This is what they said:
“I wish doctors would be more understanding that Parkinson's also affects their ability to process things sometimes. My dad would appear to be ‘thinking' about what the doctors said, but he was really struggling to understand what exactly was being said.” - Dawn
Some people with PD experience cognitive impairment that results in slowness of memory and thinking. Symptoms of cognitive impairment may not always be noticeable. However, this can influence the way people with PD understand information and may leave them feeling confused or overwhelmed.
“I wish they understood there are a lot of non-motor symptoms — hypotension, constipation, mood disorders, cognitive issues, etc. These need to be considered and monitored during regular appointments as well as those with their movement disorder specialists.” - Deanna
While non-movement symptoms are invisible, it's important to realize that they are common and many people with Parkinson’s find them more troublesome and disabling than movement symptoms.
“Healthcare professionals need to address mental health issues that can be caused by Parkinson’s itself.” -Leann
Mental health changes, like depression, anxiety and apathy are part of Parkinson's itself, resulting from PD-related changes in brain chemistry. Treating these symptoms is one of the most significant ways to improve quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s.
“This disease is very complex, not just a movement disorder. It affects your brain, your confidence, your sense of self, and there are day-to-day changes.” -Michele
Finding a mental health counselor is a step towards bettering your mental health and wellbeing. The counselor you partner with should make you feel safe and validated while helping you navigate life with PD.
“They should combine medical care with social worker care. Don't tell someone their life is about to radically change but provide nowhere to start or available services.” -Lee
Building a care team that is well-versed in PD will help guide you and improve your quality of life. People living with Parkinson's benefit most from a comprehensive, team-based healthcare approach. The Parkinson's Foundation promotes an allied health team approach across our Global Care Network.
“I wish they would believe patients and their caretakers when they mention symptoms or other issues.” -Lindsey
A 2022 poll from Mitre-Harris found that 52% of individuals in the U.S. feel their symptoms are “ignored, dismissed, or not believed” when seeking medical treatment. That number rises to 60% within the Hispanic community.
“They need to know the importance of taking medication at the right time when in the hospital. It was a nightmare trying to ensure that my mother got her medications on time.” - Roisin
People with Parkinson’s need to take their medication at the same time daily to avoid “off times,” periods of time when the effect of levodopa medication wears off, causing a return of motor or non-motor symptoms. This is especially important for healthcare providers in hospitals to recognize, as they are more likely to be distributing daily medication. Our Hospital Safety Guide is designed to help people with PD and their care partners advocate for high-quality care in the hospital.
Download Free Resources
The Hospital Safety Guide is filled with useful tools and information to help a person with Parkinson’s during their next hospital visit, planned or unplanned. Print these resources when you have used the copies within your guide, or share additional copies with care partners and loved ones.
“In general, healthcare professionals should understand more about the signs which indicate someone has Parkinson’s. Internists, even neurologists often miss the signs. We need better education for a heightened awareness of the many early symptoms of PD. Not everyone shows up with tremor.” -Donna
Learn how to recognize ten early signs of Parkinson’s in this fact sheet.
“Refer early for speech and swallowing changes!” -Julia
Addressing Parkinson’s symptoms early, such as speech and swallowing changes, is extremely important. Without intervention, swallowing difficulties can be especially dangerous.
“We are all very different, and whatever they learned in a book or heard from their last patient may not apply to me. Everything we tell our doctors pales in comparison to what we go through most days. We aren’t liars or exaggerating; we need a little relief.” -Esther
All people with PD deserve to receive proper care. Our PD stories allow people to share their stories and advocate for themselves. You can share your story here.
For Health Professionals
The Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help health professionals provide quality Parkinson’s care to their patients living with this disease. Explore our many resources for health professionals, including accredited online courses. Visit Parkinson.org/Care to learn more about our care priorities and programs.
If you or a loved one is looking for Parkinson’s expert referrals, contact our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).
