PDF Champion Jennifer Neathery

A special thank you to PDF Champion Jennifer Neathery for making a difference in the fight against Parkinson's disease. Hear her story now! 

To become a PDF Champion like Jennifer click here to register or call (800) 457-6676.

If you are a runner looking for your next big race, join the PDF Champions marathon team at the Marine Corps Marathon on Sunday, October 28th. One entry remains! For more information please email us at info@pdf.org.

Remember: The Cure Begins With YOU!

Understanding the Progression of Parkinson's

Can you predict the progression of Parkinson's? ... or change its course?

Last Tuesday, during PDF's PD ExpertBriefing, "Understanding the Progression of Parkinson's," presenter Dr. Ron Pfeiffer had a few suggestions:

• Dr. Pfeiffer provided facts about PD progression - about the percentage of people with PD who develop certain symptoms or leave their jobs after a certain number of years - but also emphasized that these are general facts.  Each person's journey with Parkinson's is very different.
• He noted that there are no treatments proven to reverse PD, but he also emphasized there are actions people can take, such as exercising and joining support groups, that may improve life with PD. (In fact, there is extensive research into exercise right now.)

He also stressed that the picture of Parkinson's he painted during his presentation ... is how the progression Parkinson's looks now.  It's not necessarily the picture of PD in five, 10 or 15 years.  So how can we change it as quickly as possible?  Here's are some suggestions from PDF:

1. Advocate for PD Research: There may not be a cure for Parkinson’s, but you can be a part of the solution.  Join more than 150 PDF Research Advocates who are speeding the development of new treatments through the Parkinson’s Advocates in Research program.  In the Midwest?  We'll announce dates for our in-person three-day training in your region later this month and invite you to apply.  Don't have the time to commit to being a PDF Research Advocate or don't see a training nearby you right now? Take our four-part online course (available in mid-July) to advance your knowledge, and work with our Research Advocates in speeding new treatments. 
2. Inform Others About Parkinson’s: Parkinson's disease is not well understood.  Spread the word in your community and bring the latest educational information to families touched by Parkinson’s.  Browse PDF’s Awareness Toolkit to find tips for raising awareness that work for you, whether writing a letter to the editor or setting up a display in your library.
3. Fundraise for Research: PDF just announced $5.3 million in funding for Parkinson's research. We were only able to do so because of your support.   Support a PD organization, or join PDF Champions, the inspiring individuals who are raising funds for PDF’s programs, to improve the lives and futures of people touched by Parkinson’s.  Whether you run a lemonade stand that raises $20 or a golf tournaments that raises $50,000, you help to move the cause forward.

These are our ideas. What do you do individually to take charge of your Parkinson's?  What ideas do you have for the community to make progress now?

New York City Rhythm and Blues Concert: PDF Champions

This past Friday, June 29, I had the pleasure of attending a PDF Champions Summer Show hosted by the State Employees Federated Appeal in Queens, NY.

The event featured live music, dancing and a 50/50 raffle. Entertainment was provided by The New York City Rhythm and Blues Ensemble.

Dr. Christopher Hess, Columbia University Fellow, spoke to the audience about Parkinson's disease and addressed their questions and concerns.  Dr. Hess was the recipient of the Ronald and Isobel Konecky Fellowship for Parkinson’s Research at Columbia University Medical Center. PDF awards this Fellowship to exceptional fellows who after completion of their two-year program are offered the opportunity to continue to an additional third year of research.  PDF also provided collateral and education resources to the guests.

While the State Employees Federated Appeal's fundraising efforts are still underway, they hope to raise $2,500 for Parkinson's research. Thank you!

Please take a look at some photos from the event:

If you are interested in hosting your own concert or other type of PDF Champions fundraising event please contact us at (800) 457-6676 or click here to register online.

Remember: The Cure Begins With YOU!