Physical discomfort, stiffness, and fatigue are often part of the Parkinson’s experience. This session offers mindful approaches for relating differently to discomfort—learning to soften resistance, steady the mind, and discover peace even when ease feels out of reach. A guided meditation will support you in meeting the body with patience and care.
Speaker
Devon Hase
Author & Meditatation Teacher
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.
APDA Minnesota Chapter, Parkinson's Foundation, and the Udall Center at the University of Minnesota are the three leading organizations for Parkinson's disease advocacy in Minnesota.
Each month, Dr. Rush invites you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with yourself and your Parkinson’s community through a guided mindfulness practice. Together, we’ll explore simple ways to ground the body, calm the mind, and cultivate compassion and clarity that you can carry into your week.
Whether you’re new to mindfulness or a returning participant, these sessions are designed to be inclusive, supportive, and accessible for everyone. Find a comfortable place to sit, settle in, and experience how mindfulness can bring steadiness and space, even in the midst of change.
A brief time for questions and reflections will follow each practice.
Speaker
Taylor Rush, PhD
Health Psychologist, Director of Behavioral Services and Interdisciplinary Programs, Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic
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.
APDA Minnesota Chapter, Parkinson's Foundation, and the Udall Center at the University of Minnesota are the three leading organizations for Parkinson's disease advocacy in Minnesota.
Richard Huckabee is a passionate Parkinson’s advocate, global speaker and retired Executive Manager who lives by two powerful mottos: “Get Better Every Day” and “Every Day I Fight.” Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2013, he transformed adversity into action—turning his journey into a global mission of hope, movement and momentum.
A devoted husband to Angela and proud father, Richard blends his love for global travel, hiking and photography with relentless advocacy. From hot air balloon safaris in Africa to exploring the pyramids, he proves that for him, Parkinson’s does not limit possibility, but fuels purpose.
Honored with the 2023 and 2024 President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award, signed by President Joe Biden, Richard serves as a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador and Research Advocate, an InMotion Ambassador, and a member of the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) Patient Council along with various other non-profit volunteer groups. He has led Ohio delegates on Capitol Hill advocating for increased federal funding for Parkinson’s research and has spoken to thousands, including at the World Parkinson Congress.
Richard is a powerful champion of inclusion in research. He was instrumental in encouraging the Black community to participate in PD GENEration: Powered by the Parkinson’s Foundation, helping ensure genetic research reflects the diversity of the PD community. His advocacy continues to open doors and build trust between underrepresented communities and leading research institutions.
“I want people with Parkinson’s to know that participating in PD GENEration is free, private, doesn’t involve any medications and is a way of contributing to a finding a cure someday. When you get your genetic testing results, you can review them and ask questions with a health professional.” – Richard
Exercise has been central to his journey from day one. In 2013, he participated in a dance drumming research study for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners. From this study, the members of the group formed into a source of invaluable support for Richard and his wife. They continue to meet for breakfast as the “Breakfast Club” and enjoy hikes together.
Additionally, Richard has participated in hundreds of research initiatives and groundbreaking clinical trials, including Cleveland Clinic’s Augmented Reality study, an experience that led to his appearance in the 2025 Cleveland Clinic Super Bowl commercial spotlighting Parkinson’s research.
Whether mentoring those newly diagnosed, collaborating with researchers, speaking internationally or lacing up his hiking boots, Richard inspires others to rise, move and believe in a bright future.
Explore ways to get involved with Parkinson’s research today. Visit our Join A Study page and learn more about PD GENEration, the Parkinson’s Foundation genetics study that offers genetic testing and counseling at no cost to participants.
Kathy McMurray is a force of compassion and action in Evansville, IN, where she serves as a dedicated Ambassador for the Parkinson’s Foundation and a tireless advocate for people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD).
At just 36 years old, Kathy was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD). Soon after, she began volunteering with the Foundation in 2019. Along the way, she has served as a Community Grantee reviewer, Moving Day volunteer, support group presenter and advocate in securing Senate sponsorship for the Indiana Parkinson’s Registry. She continues to participate in Ambassador trainings, demonstrating her commitment to growth and informed advocacy.
Above all — she leads.
As Board President and Co-Founder of the non-profit PDEVV Hub, Kathy works to ensure that no one in the Evansville region feels alone after diagnosis. Providing access to local resources and fostering genuine human connection has been her driving force. This drive inspired Kathy to start two support groups in Evansville, IN and Hendersonville, KY.
On the north side of Evansville, where Kathy lives with her husband, Jim, and their dog, something remarkable has quietly taken root. Within just 10 houses, four people are living with Parkinson’s disease — all at different stages.
What could have been isolating has instead become empowering. The neighbors encourage one another. The newly diagnosed find reassurance and shared understanding. Kathy believes fiercely in the strength of a group. “Life changes, but it can still be fun,” she said.
Kathy is already looking ahead — to continued advocacy and attending the World Parkinson Congress in Phoenix, AZ. Her mission remains clear: to guide others to the support they need and ensure that no one walks this journey alone.
Her work spans local, state, and national levels — but it always returns home to Evansville.
Expert Briefing: Complementary Therapies & Functional Medicine in Parkinson's Care
November 12, 2025
Managing Parkinson’s disease (PD) symptoms goes beyond traditional medications, with complementary therapies and holistic approaches offering additional support. This program introduces participants to non-drug options—such as massage, acupuncture, red light therapy, and CBD—that can help relieve symptoms and enhance daily well-being. By exploring functional medicine's focus on root causes and whole-body wellness, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how these therapies can address symptoms and improve overall quality of life, providing a more balanced and individualized approach to PD management.
Britt A. Stone, MD
Assistant Clinical Professor, Clinical Director — Vanderbilt Neurology Main Campus Clinics
Medical Director — Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence
Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Videos & Webinars
Expert Briefing: Tremor, Shakes, & Everything in Between
Tremor, Shakes, & Everything in Between: Parkinson's Motor Symptoms
March 11, 2026
Motor symptoms are among the most recognizable aspects of Parkinson’s disease. From tremor and rigidity to dystonia, dyskinesia, and changes in posture and gait, these symptoms can affect daily life in unique ways. We will explore the wide spectrum of motor symptoms, how they evolve, and strategies for managing them.
Pablo Coss, MD
Assistant Professor of Neurology, UTH San Antonio
Movement Disorders Specialist
Director, HDSA Center of Excellence, San Antonio
UT Health San Antonio
Raise Awareness
Find Real Answers
A Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis brings endless questions. Questions that evolve as the disease and your ability to cope evolve. This April, for Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we want to help people find real answers when it comes to Parkinson’s.
When Parkinson’s gets real, the Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help you find real answers. We offer trusted, accessible support through our Helpline, website, social media and our new AI chat feature: Ask PAM.
Here are some of the top questions and answers people have about Parkinson’s:
What are the early signs of Parkinson’s?
Early signs of Parkinson’s can be subtle. While movement symptoms like tremors, stiffness and trouble with balance are the most noticeable, early signs also include a change in handwriting, loss of smell, trouble sleeping and vertigo. Learn all 10 early signs of PD.
What do you do after noticing early signs?
No one symptom means you have Parkinson’s. If you have several symptoms, consider seeing your primary doctor, then asking for a referral to a neurologist, or ideally, a movement disorders specialist (a specialized neurologist). Keep reading on this topic.
How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?
Parkinson’s is diagnosed based on observation — a doctor assesses medical history, current symptoms and a physical exam. No single lab or test confirms a diagnosis, though certain tests can help rule out other conditions. Learn more about getting diagnosed.
What causes Parkinson’s?
Scientists believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors are the cause of Parkinson’s. Genetics contribute to 10–15% of PD cases, with specific gene mutations linked to the disease. Learn more about this topic.
The most obvious symptoms of PD are called movement symptoms. Parkinson’s is called a movement disorder because it causes tremors, slowing and muscle stiffness. However, non-movement symptoms are common and can be more troublesome and disabling than movement symptoms for many people with Parkinson’s. These can include depression, anxiety, sleep issues and more.
Treatment often includes medications specific to your needs. The medication Levodopa is the most effective treatment for movement symptoms as it converts to dopamine in the brain. Treatments also include things that you do yourself such as exercise and rehabilitative therapies, such as physical or speech therapy.
Is there a cure for Parkinson’s?
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, treatments can effectively manage symptoms. Medication, exercise and rehabilitative therapies help maintain mobility, balance and mental health. The Parkinson’s Foundation also funds research to advance better treatments and move us closer to a cure. Explore ongoing PD research.
Can you live a long life with Parkinson’s?
Yes. Parkinson’s symptoms and rate of progression are unique for every person living with the disease. Navigating PD involves building a care team with specialists who can address symptoms as they occur, building a support network and staying active.
For immediate answers based on Parkinson’s Foundation information and articles, try our new AI-powered chat tool, Ask PAM (Parkinson’s Assistance Messenger). Ask PAM now.
Call our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) to speak with an information specialist for personalized answers.
Explore Parkinson.org for tailored resources and information on the PD topics that matter most to you right now.
The Parkinson’s Foundation mission to help people live better with Parkinson’s continues strong year-round. Here are some ways you can help us raise PD awareness right now:
Un diagnóstico de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) suele ir acompañado de una interminable lista de preguntas. Preguntas que evolucionan al ritmo de la enfermedad y de su capacidad para afrontarla. Este mes de abril, con motivo del Mes de la Concientización sobre el Parkinson, queremos ayudar a las personas a encontrar respuestas reales cuando se trata del Parkinson.
Cuando el Parkinson se vuelve real, la Parkinson's Foundation está para ayudarle a encontrar respuestas reales. Ofrecemos asistencia confiable y accesible a través de nuestra Línea de Ayuda, nuestro sitio web, las redes sociales y nuestra nueva función de chat con inteligencia artificial (IA): Ask PAM (pregúntele a PAM).
Estas son algunas de las preguntas y respuestas más frecuentes que hacen las personas sobre el Parkinson:
¿Cuáles son los signos tempranos del Parkinson?
Los primeros signos del Parkinson pueden ser sutiles. Si bien los síntomas motores, como temblores, rigidez y problemas de equilibrio, son los más evidentes, los primeros signos también incluyen cambios en la escritura, pérdida del olfato, problemas para dormir y vértigo. Conozca los 10 signos tempranos de la EP.
¿Qué hacer cuando se notan los primeros signos?
Ningún síntoma por sí solo significa que tenga Parkinson. Si tiene varios síntomas, considere ver a su médico de cabecera y, luego, pedir que lo mande a un neurólogo o, en el mejor de los casos, a un especialista en trastornos del movimiento (un neurólogo especializado). Siga leyendo sobre este tema.
¿Cómo se diagnostica el Parkinson?
El diagnóstico del Parkinson se basa en la observación: el doctor evalúa el historial médico, los síntomas actuales y un examen físico. Ningún laboratorio o prueba por sí solo confirma un diagnóstico, aunque ciertas pruebas pueden ayudar a descartar otras afecciones. Aprenda más acerca del diagnóstico.
¿Qué causa el Parkinson?
Los científicos creen que la causa del Parkinson es una combinación de factores genéticos y ambientales. La genética contribuye a un 10-15% de los casos de la EP, con mutaciones genéticas específicas vinculadas a la enfermedad. Aprenda más acerca de este tema.
¡Ponga a prueba sus conocimientos sobre la EP ahora!
Los síntomas más evidentes de la EP se llaman síntomas motores. El Parkinson se llama trastorno del movimiento porque provoca temblores, movimientos lentos y rigidez muscular. Sin embargo, los síntomas no motores son frecuentes y pueden ser más molestos e incapacitantes que los síntomas motores para muchas personas con Parkinson. Éstos pueden incluir depresión, ansiedad, problemas de sueño y más.
El tratamiento suele incluir medicamentos específicos para sus necesidades. El medicamento Levodopa es el tratamiento más eficaz para los síntomas motores, ya que se convierte en dopamina en el cerebro. Los tratamientos también incluyen cosas que puede hacer usted mismo, como ejercicio y terapias de rehabilitación, como fisioterapia o terapia del habla y el lenguaje.
¿Existe una cura para el Parkinson?
Aunque el Parkinson no tiene cura, los tratamientos pueden manejar eficazmente los síntomas. Los medicamentos, el ejercicio y las terapias de rehabilitación ayudan a mantener la movilidad, el equilibrio y la salud mental. La Parkinson's Foundation también financia la investigación para impulsar mejores tratamientos y acercarnos a una cura. Explorar la investigación actual sobre la EP.
¿Se puede vivir mucho tiempo con Parkinson?
Sí. Los síntomas y el ritmo de progresión del Parkinson son únicos para cada persona que vive con la enfermedad. Navegar por la EP implica crear un equipo de atención con especialistas que puedan atender los síntomas a medida que aparecen, crear una red de apoyo y mantenerse activo.
3 maneras de encontrar respuestas reales a preguntas acerca de la EP
Para obtener respuestas inmediatas basadas en información y artículos de la Parkinson’s Foundation, pruebe nuestra nueva herramienta de chat impulsada por la IA, Ask PAM (Parkinson's Assistance Messenger, o mensajero de asistencia para el Parkinson). Pregúntele a PAM ahora.
Llame a nuestra Línea de Ayuda al 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636), opción 3 para español, para hablar con un especialista en información y obtener respuestas personalizadas.
Explore Parkinson.org/Espanol para obtener recursos e información personalizados acerca de los temas relacionados con la EP que más le interesan en este momento.
La misión de la Parkinson’s Foundation de ayudar a las personas a vivir mejor con Parkinson permanece fuerte todo el año. Estas son algunas formas en las que puede ayudarnos a generar conciencia acerca de la EP ahora mismo:
I came to this country over 30 years ago from Mexico and have worked various jobs throughout my life to support my family. My true passion has always been music. I come from a family of musicians and have been blessed to be part of several bands here in the U.S., where I played the bajo sexto, or the Mexican 12-string guitar, and sang.
I have two daughters, a son, and two granddaughters who motivate me to face the challenges of my diagnosis. My oldest daughter noticed my early Parkinson's disease (PD) symptoms and helped me find a neurologist who gave me the official diagnosis five years ago. Since then, my daughter has made sure I stay active every day and enrolled me in Rock Steady Boxing, which has helped me feel my best.
I didn't think I was going to enjoy it, but movement has truly been like medicine for me. The Foundation says that the type of exercise you enjoy doing most, as long as it's safe, is the best exercise for you.
Look for Fidel and Myrella in our new PSA aiming to help people find real answers to their Parkinson’s questions.
I also enjoy dancing with my daughters whenever I can. Music is a kind of therapy for me, and it transports me to a place of pure joy. Even my eldest daughter says that when we dance together, my balance is at its best and mobility seems to come to me easier.
I love spending time with my children and granddaughters, and I'm so grateful for their support.
When my father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s five years ago I knew I needed to find out every single thing about Parkinson’s. My father is the most hardworking and loving person I know, and I did everything in my power to help him navigate this disease.
I decided to pursue physical therapy as my career so I could give him the best care possible myself. After graduating and passing my boards I began working with Parkinson’s patients in various settings and came across the realization that movement is medicine.
During this time, I moved in with my significant other five hours away from my dad, which made it difficult to keep my dad motivated and moving. I signed him up for Rock Steady Boxing and he thrived in this class! I noticed such a positive change in his mood and physical state. It was thanks to the Parkinson’s Foundation that I was able to find these classes.
We’re here for care partners. Learn more about Caring From Afar and other care partner topics.
Since his diagnosis, I’ve become inspired, every day, to help people like my dad and their families. I’ve made it my mission to educate not only my patients about the importance of the Parkinson’s Foundation official exercise recommendations, but also my colleagues. Every day alongside other therapists, I try to create a space where the most up to date guidance, professional training and resources are available to everyone with PD who may come through the door.
As a first-generation Mexican-American, I also know the challenges adult children may face navigating the healthcare system in both English and Spanish. Having resources available in both languages like those the Parkinson’s Foundation provides, has been a lifesaver.
There seems to be a stigma in the Hispanic community about sharing medical hardships, and oftentimes many people with PD — like my father — feel isolated. This is why building community has been such an important part of my father’s journey, and as advocate, part of mine as well. Educating our community about Parkinson's symptoms and treatments is a job I take very seriously.
I am thankful for my siblings who always check in on Dad and for technology which helps me keep in touch with my father daily. I make the most of my monthly trips to take him to his appointments and check in on his progress in person.
I love you, Dad. You are my best friend, and I would do anything to make sure you’re happy and healthy!
Llegué a este país hace más de 30 años desde México y trabajé en varios empleos a lo largo de mi vida para mantener a mi familia. Mi verdadera pasión siempre fue la música. Vengo de una familia de músicos y tuve la bendición de poder formar parte de varias bandas aquí en Estados Unidos, donde tocaba el bajo sexto y cantaba.
Tengo dos hijas, un hijo y dos nietas que me motivan a enfrentar las dificultades de mi diagnóstico. Mi hija mayor notó mis primeros síntomas de Parkinson y me ayudó a encontrar un neurólogo que me dio el diagnóstico oficial hace 5 años. Desde entonces, mi hija se ha asegurado de que me mantenga activo todos los días y me inscribió en Rock Steady Boxing, lo cual me ha ayudado a sentirme lo mejor posible.
No pensé que iba a disfrutarlo, pero el movimiento realmente ha sido como una medicina para mí. La Fundación dice que el tipo de ejercicio que te gusta hacer, mientras que sea seguro, es el mejor ejercicio para ti.
Busque a Fidel y Myrella en nuestro nuevo anuncio de servicio público, cuyo objetivo es ayudar a las personas a encontrar respuestas reales a sus preguntas acerca del Parkinson.
También disfruto bailar con mis hijas cada vez que puedo. La música es una especie de terapia para mí y me transporta a un lugar de pura alegría. Hasta mi hija mayor dice que, cuando bailamos juntos, mi equilibrio está en su mejor momento y la movilidad parece más fácil.]
Me encanta pasar tiempo con mis hijos y mis nietas, y estoy muy agradecido por tener su apoyo.
Cuando a mi padre le diagnosticaron la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) hace cinco años, supe que tenía que averiguar todo lo posible sobre el Parkinson. Mi padre es la persona más trabajadora y cariñosa que conozco e hice todo lo que estuvo a mi alcance para ayudarle a navegar por esta enfermedad.
Decidí dedicarme a la fisioterapia como profesión para poder darle yo misma los mejores cuidados posibles. Después de graduarme y aprobar mis certificaciones, empecé a trabajar con pacientes de Parkinson en varios entornos y me di cuenta de que el movimiento es medicina.
Durante este tiempo, me mudé con mi pareja a cinco horas de distancia de mi padre, lo que dificultó mantenerlo motivado y en movimiento. ¡Lo inscribí en Rock Steady Boxing y la clase le sentó muy bien! Noté un cambio muy positivo en su estado de ánimo y físico. Fue gracias a la Parkinson's Foundation que pude encontrar estas clases.
Estamos aquí para los aliados en el cuidado. Aprenda más acerca de Cuidar a la distancia y otros temas para los aliados en el cuidado.
Desde que lo diagnosticaron, cada día me he sentido más inspirada para ayudar a personas como mi padre y a sus familias. He adoptado la misión de educar no sólo a mis pacientes acerca de la importancia de las recomendaciones oficiales de ejercicio de la Parkinson’s Foundation, sino también a mis colegas. Cada día, junto con otros terapeutas, intento crear un espacio en el que la orientación, la formación profesional y los recursos más actualizados estén al alcance de todas las personas con la EP que entren por mi puerta.
Como mexicana-estadounidense de primera generación, también conozco los desafíos a los que pueden enfrentarse los hijos adultos al navegar por el sistema de salud tanto en inglés como en español. Contar con recursos en ambos idiomas, como los que ofrece la Parkinson’s Foundation, ha sido un salvavidas.
Parece que en la comunidad hispana existe un estigma a la hora de compartir las dificultades médicas y a menudo muchas personas con la EP — como mi padre — se sienten aisladas. Por eso, crear comunidad ha sido una parte tan importante del recorrido de mi padre y, como defensora, también del mío. Educar a nuestra comunidad sobre los síntomas y tratamientos del Parkinson es un trabajo que me tomo muy en serio.
Estoy agradecida con mis hermanos, que siempre están pendientes de papá y con la tecnología, que me ayuda a mantenerme en contacto con mi padre a diario. Aprovecho al máximo mis viajes mensuales para llevarlo a sus citas y comprobar en persona sus progresos.
Te quiero, papá. Eres mi mejor amigo, ¡y haría cualquier cosa para asegurarme de que eres feliz y estás sano!
