MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR--JULY 2024

We’re deep into summer (thermometer reads a cool 108 degrees as I write this) and halfway through 2024… how did that happen? As we marinate in the longest days of the year, it’s as good a time as any to reflect on where we started, where we are, and where we want to go within these 12-month arcs through which we quantify life.

Six months into my own tenure at the helm of Parkinson’s Resource Organization, I’m excited about what the future holds. I’ll be honest, when I took over in January, I worried that no one would show up to our first few support groups. And yet you came, and you came back, and you continue to join us online, in-person, and over the phone. I’m so pleased that the resources available through our various programs have stood the test of change.

Speaking of change… we were thrilled to dip our toes back into in-person support groups with the inaugural monthly Parkinson’s Round Table at The Variel in Los Angeles. We’re hard at work to build a Fall schedule of events that should have a little something for everyone, including more in-person and social opportunities. 

That said, you’ll notice a mild reduction in support groups this month and next. Some of our volunteer facilitators are taking well-deserved breaks; they’ll be back in September, refreshed and raring to go. As always, you can see the full support group schedule on the back page of the physical Newsletter or on our website, ParkinsonsResource.org/calendar. 

Already during this ‘summer lull’, I’ve had the pleasure to meet with several organizations serving the Parkinson’s community in unique ways. For example, I took a dance class with Invertigo Dance Theater’s Dancing with Parkinson’s program in Crenshaw that was downright playful! Conversations with healthcare providers at DAP Health and Desert Care Network continue to help us round out our network of care resources. Which prompts me to issue my periodic reminder... if you receive fabulous care from a doctor, practitioner, service provider or business working to improve quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and caregivers, let us know. Your hidden gem may be our next caller’s saving grace.

But I digress. It’s summer, we’re at the pause point of the year. We’re as close to the sun as we’ll get, and as far from the New Year as we’ll be. As you soak up the sun—safely, with regard for hydration, heat, and medication—I’m curious: what’s challenging you this year? What surprises has 2024 brought you? What’s going well? What do you need help with? Let us know. You know where to find me. 

Read more about VETS BILL WOULD EXPAND CAREGIVER SUPPORT, BOOST IN-HOME CARE OPTIONS; along with OZEMPIC-LIKE DRUG SLOWED PROGRESSION OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE IN NEW TRIAL; INTRODUCTION TO ESTATE PLANNING; TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH PARKINSON’S; CREATE A CAREGIVER EMERGENCY CARE LIST, and; DID YOU KNOW? - RASAGILINE & DULOXETINE.

Until next month, REMEMBER Independence Day on July 4th. The flower is the Larkspur, Tulip, or Water Lily, and the birthstone is the Ruby. 

ALWAYS remember to CELEBRATE YOU and LEAD WITH LOVE.