Living Better Together

Editorial

In observance of Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month during April, the Virginia chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association provided the content for the following commentary:

There are more than one million people in the U.S., including 24,000 in Virginia, who are living with Parkinson’s disease, a chronic neurological disorder. Now more than ever, it is critical to engage, inform and support the PD community and raise awareness about this disease. “Living Better Together,” this year’s theme, is a plea to have everyone join in the fight against Parkinson’s so all of us can enjoy a better life.

“Every six minutes, there is a new diagnoses of PD,” states Kathryn Wiesmann, APDA Virginia chapter coordinator, which means that during April alone, nearly 7,200 people in the United States learned they had PD. “These people need to know that they are not alone, and that APDA is here for them.”

Often the first line of defense after a diagnosis, APDA helps people with PD and their loved ones build a community and assemble the resources and support they need to make their journey more positive. APDA connects people to the information they need to feel more in control; to the medical experts who can help them manage their disease; and to the local support and services that can help them feel less alone.

“Here in Virginia, we are the boots on the ground,” said Wiesmann. “We see time and time again that people with Parkinson’s feel more supported and optimistic when they have others in their corner. From support groups and exercise classes to educational seminars and access to PD experts, the APDA Virginia Chapter can help connect you to so many people and resources that can improve your PD experience.”

Beyond Virginia, APDA offers extensive virtual programming to make sure that no matter where you live, you have access to high-quality PD information and programs and feel connected to the PD community even from afar. From popular webinar series like Dr. Gilbert Hosts and the ongoing Spanishlanguage Café con la doctora program, to the robust calendar of virtual exercise and movement classes – there is something for everyone.

Support from the general public is crucial. People can help by raising awareness of PD and/or by making a donation that enables APDA to continue their critical work and fund research that will lead to better treatments and ultimately, a cure; every effort makes a difference.

The APDA is a nationwide grassroots network dedicated to fighting Parkinson’s disease and works tirelessly to assist those who have the disease live life to the fullest. Founded in 1961, APDA has raised and invested more than $252 million to provide outstanding patient services and educational programs, elevate public awareness and support research designed to unlock the mysteries of PD and end this disease. To find out more, visit www. apdaparkinson.org.

For more information about APDA programs, services and support in Virginia, contact the APDA Virginia chapter by calling (757) 495-3062 or visiting [email protected].