Chief Executive Officer Wendy Lewis discussed the work of The Parkinson Council whose mission is to provide financial support to local nonprofits and institutions dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families and care partners.  Founded by volunteers who turned to fundraising, The Parkingson Council provides research grants to major institutions including Penn and Jefferson, as well as funding for programs working to support with people with Parkinsons – movement or even singing groups.  #raiselocalstayslocal She discussed what they know about the disease, it’s caused by a lack of information-transmitting dopamine, it does occur in families through a genetic mutation, but how and why it is triggered is still being studied.  Veterans exposed to Agent Orrange and rural communities near pesticides are especially vulnerable. While early-onset can occur in your 30s and 40s, it’s mostly diagnosed later in life and mistaken for common aging.  She noted they are working to increase awareness within our different communities, where diagnosis is often delayed by poor access to medical care and lack of awareness. 

Ms Lewis described the symptoms that include arms that don’t swing as you walk, constipation and tremors, and the research they fund for new treatments.

She asks us to support their mission, the easy way through their Walk to End Parkinsons October 16 at the Philadelphia Zoo.  With its theme, Empower Community the funds raised will continue to support the local research and patient programming.  You can participate on site or virtually, as an individual or as part of a team.  For more information visit THEPARKINSONCOUNCIL.ORG