Parkinson’s Resource Organization (PRO) and The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) are collaborating to host "Parkinson’s Today: An Educational Symposium" in Coachella Valley on February 8, 2025. This event marks the first Parkinson's symposium in the area in eight years. It will be held at UC Riverside Palm Desert Center in Palm Desert, California.
The free half-day symposium will feature three panels of experts discussing the latest developments in Parkinson’s treatment, policy, and caregiving. Eileen Lynch, Executive Director of PRO, expressed optimism about the partnership with MJFF, stating that it is a significant time to collaborate due to increased attention on Parkinson's from federal legislation and public figures. She emphasized the potential impact of this symposium for people with Parkinson's both locally and nationally.
Ethan Henderson, Senior Manager at MJFF, highlighted the unique challenges faced by individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and praised PRO for its supportive resources. He expressed enthusiasm about partnering with PRO to share new insights into understanding and treating Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease is noted as the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorder globally, with a higher incidence rate in Southern California compared to other regions. Approximately one million Americans live with Parkinson's, including an estimated 8-10,000 individuals in Coachella Valley.
The symposium aims to provide valuable information for those affected by Parkinson's through various approaches such as caregiving, therapy, and surgical interventions. Attendees must pre-register for the free event, and recordings will be available online for those unable to attend.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation is recognized as the largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s research worldwide. Since its inception, it has funded $2 billion in research efforts aimed at finding a cure and improving therapies for patients today.
Founded in 1990, Parkinson’s Resource Organization offers support groups, educational resources, and advocacy services to ensure no one feels isolated due to Parkinson’s disease.
For more details or early registration for the symposium visit www.parkinsonsresource.org/symposium.