April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time the global community comes together to help fund Parkinson’s research. Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease that affects 10 million people globally, with 90,000 new diagnoses each year alone. There is still no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, but great scientific strides are being made to understand and find treatments for the disease. Parkinson’s affects everyone, it doesn’t discriminate and is not based on skin color, economics, or social class. Parkinson’s changes individuals and families alike. As research continues to uncover the complexity of the disease, from the brain to the body,so does the urgency to invest in better treatments, earlier detection, and ultimately, a cure that can change the future for millions.
Organizations everywhere are working to raise awareness, with groups providing education, information, and support for those with the disease while leading research efforts aimed at finding a cure.
Throughout April, Parkinson’s organizations don’t just focus on a single event, they build an entire network of awareness, from global campaigns and landmark light-ups to local walks, workshops, and digital storytelling, all working together to raise understanding and push forward the search for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Events like Walk to End Parkinson’s at Seneca Park on Saturday April 4 in Louisville, KY and the Parkinson’s Unity Walk at Central Park in New York City on Saturday, April 25 with other events happening in cities around the world throughout the month of April. Parkinson’s organizations don’t just focus on one event, they create a full network of awareness. That includes global efforts like World Parkinson’s Day on April 11, light-up campaigns where landmarks are illuminated to bring attention to the disease, and community events like Moving Day walks, Run for Parkinson’s races, and local fundraisers. At the same time, hospitals, universities, and advocacy groups hold educational seminars, support groups, and caregiver workshops, while digital campaigns and patient stories continue to spread awareness online.
All of it works together to increase understanding and keep pushing forward toward better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. Check your local area. These are big fundraising events to raise awareness and fund support to find a cure for what can be a debilitating and life-changing disease.
A little can go a long way; donate and help find a cure! Check out the list of events happening in the month of April from the Parkinson’s Foundation and the Michael J Fox Foundation
