Lorraine Wilson letter: People with Parkinson s can get help
Lorraine Wilson
April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month.
Approximately 1 million people in the United States live with Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive, neurodegenerative, incurable disease. Persons with Parkinson’s (PwP) experience many symptoms including tremors, balance, problems, stiffness, facial masking, voice or swallowing issues, and cognitive changes. While there is no cure yet, there are amazing resources to manage PD and help PwP live well for many years beyond diagnosis.
Local resources include the Big Country Parkinson’s Support Group that meets in the Baker Heights Church of Christ fellowship hall from 1-2 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month (summer months pending). The group provides personal and community connections, research-based education, information about local exercise classes, and social activities. Contact Jan at ljb03c@acu.edu.
World Parkinson Coalition Spotlights Research in New Series
The World Parkinson Coalition (WPC) launches reportedly its first-ever WPC Research Spotlight series. The series includes six interviews in 2021 with renowned Parkinson scientists, during which they further explain their research and what it could mean for the Parkinson community.
Every 3 years at the World Parkinson Congress, the WPC brings together basic scientists, neurologists, clinical researchers, general physicians, nurses, rehab specialists, clinicians, as well as people with Parkinson’s (PwP) and care partners to learn about Parkinson’s, build collaborations, and expand understanding of the disease.
“The World Parkinson Congress is a scientific meeting unlike any other Parkinson’s gathering. At the core of what the WPC offers is the chance for the community to cross-pollinate and connect in unique ways to further our understanding of Parkinson disease.