Find out How Parkinson's Changes Everything During Parkinson Awareness Month This April

TORONTO, ON

March 31, 2016

Parkinson's changes everything. It is a disease of the brain that touches almost every aspect of daily living, including: movement, mood, speech, eating and drinking, sleep, and cognitive changes. It worsens over time, robbing a person of independence through increasing complications, and ultimately resulting in premature death. There is no known cause or cure for Parkinson's disease.

Right now in Canada some 100,000 individuals with Parkinson's are struggling with the stigma and daily challenges of living with this complex neurological disease. By 2031, the Parkinson's population is expected to double. With 10 more people diagnosed every day in Canada, chances are you or someone you know or love will be affected. 

"The need for support, education, medical specialists and research is more urgent than ever," says Joyce Gordon, CEO, Parkinson Canada. "This April we will be informing Canadians about the impact of Parkinson's and that they can find help and hope at Parkinson Canada." 

It takes communities of caregivers, health professionals, volunteers, staff, researchers and donors to educate, advocate for, and support people living with Parkinson's and their families, as well as continue the search for a cure. From tulip sales to webinars and from a wing-eating contest to research presentations, Parkinson communities across the country are stepping up with events and activities during Parkinson Awareness Month this April. For details about what's happening in your community, visit the interactive map at www.Parkinson.ca for local event listings.

Parkinson Canada is also offering two, cross-Canada webinars. Voice and communications therapies in Parkinson's disease: Evidence, timing and techniques will be presented by Dr. Angela Roberts, speech-language pathologist and a Parkinson Canada-funded researcher, on April 15, from noon to 1 p.m. EDT. You will need a computer and internet access and advance registration is required. 

A French-language webinar for caregivers will be presented on April 28, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Social worker Jennifer Héroux-Bourduas and care partner Cecilia Gaudet, will discuss coping strategies when caring for someone living with a progressive neurological disease. Free registration at www.lereseauaidant.ca.

About Parkinson Canada

Parkinson Canada is the national voice of Canadians living with Parkinson' Disease. From diagnosis to discovery, since 1965 the group provides education, advocacy and support services to people living with Parkinson's, caregivers and health care professionals. The National Research Program funds innovative research to search for better treatments and a cure. Parkinson Canada is an Imagine Canada accredited organization. Visit www.parkinson.ca

Contact:
Kelly Mills
Communication Associate
Parkinson Canada
Kelly.mills@parkinson.ca
416-227-9700, ext. 3469
1-800-565-3000, ext. 3469

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