Parkinson’s Foundation Launches $30 Million Multi
Reach Further aims to expand community reach while advancing research toward a cure
MIAMI and NEW YORK, Sept. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Parkinson’s Foundation has announced the launch of the Reach Further campaign, a new, four-year fundraising initiative that will raise an additional $30 million to accelerate Parkinson’s disease research and increase access to healthcare and quality-of-life programs.
“With the rate of Parkinson’s diagnoses on the rise, the Reach Further campaign is a prime example of how the Parkinson’s Foundation plans to address the needs of our community today and tomorrow,” said John L. Lehr, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Parkinson’s Foundation. “Funding from this campaign will drive research toward new, superior therapies for people with Parkinson’s, expand our clinical care network across the U.S, and provide meaningful support to the Parkinson’s community.”
Progress toward new and improved medicines, and ultimately a cure, relies almost exclusively on significant investments in promising research. This campaign will intensify fundraising efforts to support scientists focusing on the speediest routes to breakthroughsthose addressing the disease’s symptoms and underlying causes.
To learn more about the Reach Further campaign, visit Parkinson.org/Reach.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Parkinsons Foundation Minnesota And Dakotas
Parkinsons Foundation Minnesota and Dakotas makes life better for people with Parkinsons disease by improving care and advancing research towards a cure. Although our office is located in the Twin Cities, we provide education, resources and programs throughout the states of Minnesota and the Dakotas. Whether you are newly diagnosed with PD or have been managing it for years, a care partner, family member or friend of someone with PD, we are here to help you.
Is There Science Behind This
Science, yes. Magic, no. This method requires regular practice if you want to make lasting, long-term changes to the ways that you think and feel. The good news is that both guided imagery and bilateral stimulation are widely practiced and well-established practices. However, I recommend that if you are still struggling after repeated listening, you find a qualified trauma therapist to continue the work you have already started.
You May Like: Sam Waterston Stroke
What Happens In The Brain
The symptoms of Parkinsons disease are caused by damage to the nerve cells in the brain that make dopamine and norepinephrine, which are chemical messengers that transmit electrical signals from the brain to the body. The lack of these neurotransmitters causes movement problems, but also many non-motor symptoms, such as mental changes, problems sleeping, depression, memory loss, fatigue, constipation, and other problems.
Motivated To Exercise Or Do Anything Else
Apathy, or lack of motivation, is one of the common non-motor symptoms of Parkinsons disease. Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet to treat apathy. To address your lack of motivation, try scheduling cardio exercise, stretching exercises, and socialization into your calendar in the same way you schedule your medical appointments. For exercise, try doing this at the same time each day. This helps hold you more accountable. In addition, with time, these activities will become habit and part of your daily routine. You can also educate your family and friends on how Parkinsons disease affects your motivation. In turn, they may be willing to become your exercise buddy and provide support and encouragement.
Recommended Reading: Parkinson’s Ribbon
A Look At The Research
Guided imagery is a behavioral technique using a series of verbal suggestions to guide oneself or others in visualizing an image in the mind to bring a desired response in the way of a reduction in stress, anxiety, or pain. A growing list of empirical literature supports the use of these techniques in various physical and emotional conditions. Guided imagery resulted in a clinically significant reduction in PTSD and related symptoms in a returning, combat-exposed active-duty military population. Positive affirmations can positively affect the brains circuitry. There is MRI evidence suggesting that specific neural pathways are increased when people practice self-affirmation tasks.
Numerous research articles have established that bilateral stimulation is one of the most effective treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder . Some therapists practice Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing , a combination of psychotherapy and bilateral stimulation. EMDR is very effective for treating a wide range of mental health issues due to emotional and physical trauma. During bilateral stimulation, patients tend to process the memory in a way that leads to a peaceful resolution. And, often results in increased insight regarding both previously disturbing events and long-held negative thoughts about the self.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is an effective type of talk therapy used by mental health professionals to help people become aware of unhealthy, inaccurate and negative patterns of thinking so that they can view challenging situations more clearly. This newfound clarity allows individuals to respond to lifes opportunities in more effective and meaningful ways. As well explore together, we have developed a specialized CBT program to help persons diagnosed with Parkinsons disease to overcome depressive symptoms, to become more proactive and empowered with respect to their own self-care and to work towards living a more fulfilling life. The extensive benefits of this approach for the PD community has been supported by the results of three randomized-controlled trials 1-3. Research suggests that daily practice of the skills and techniques described below is associated with large reductions in depression and anxiety and significant improvements in quality of life. Below, we outline and describe all of the unique ingredients that will help to you cook up the secret sauce for optimizing your mood, so that you can live life to the fullest, each and every day. Just getting by is not good enough. We want you to thrive not just survive.
Read Also: Parkinson’s Disease And Essential Oils
Bump Up Your Fiber Intake
A high-fiber diet is a proven way to avoid constipation, a common problem for people with PD.
Parkinsons can slow down the intestines and cause constipation, Dr. Gostkowski says. Fiber helps keep things moving. There are plenty of high-fiber foods out there, so choose your favorites. Women should aim for 25 grams of fiber per day, and men should get 38 grams.
Best Charities For Parkinson’s Disease
The best charities for Parkinson’s Disease are the ones that.. exist. There aren’t many easily accessible out there. When you hear about them, the ones we list below are primarily the ones you hear about. We have discovered a few others but could not validate the quality of their organizations. For instance, YOPA is geared towards educating the public and politians on young onset Parkinson’s disease, but they are not listed in the AIP ratings.
Also Check: What Is The Life Expectancy Of Someone With Parkinson’s Disease
What Kinds Of Genetic Research Is Being Done
Researchers are investigating genes that code proteins responsible for producing dopamine. By increasing the amount of dopamine in the brain, Parkinson’s symptoms can be minimized if not prevented.
What other treatments are being researched?
- Drug treatments. Researchers are investigating drugs that block the action of glutamate, an amino acid that destroys nerve cells, as well as the role of the antioxidant coenzyme Q-10 in slowing the progression of Parkinson’s disease.
- Neural growth factor. Preliminary studies have shown that neural growth factor revives the dormant cells needed to produce dopamine, dramatically improving symptoms.
- Deep brain stimulation. Research is underway to better understand how deep brain stimulation works in Parkinson’s disease. Researchers are also studying improved ways of stimulating the brain.
What Does It Mean To Be An Energy Healer
Being an energy healer means youre trained in at least one energy healing modality. This could be anything from acupuncture to Reiki and many things in between. An energy healer is someone who is very sensitive to the human energy field and can manipulate, restore and balance the flow of energy in the body in order to activate the bodys own natural healing ability.
Read Also: Parkinson Genetic Factors
Parkinsons Biotech Companies: Where Are They In 2021
Posted on:
Parkinsons disease research has been immensely challenging for biotechs, with a high rate of late-stage attrition in trials leading to a lack of disease-modifying therapies being approved.
In 2019, Xtalks profiled six Parkinsons biotech companies that were leading the way in disease research and drug development. Two years later, we wanted to check in on the progress these companies have made in developing treatments for the progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
Like other neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimers disease and dementias, Parkinsons disease research has been immensely challenging for biotechs, with a high rate of late-stage attrition in trials leading to a lack of disease-modifying therapies being approved.
Read on to learn about the latest updates from Parkinsons biotech companies Prevail Therapeutics, Axovant Gene Therapies, Voyager Therapeutics, Inflazome, Denali Therapeutics and Neuropore Therapies, and also find out about some emerging players in the Parkinsons disease space.
What Is Fetal Cell Transplantation
Fetal cell transplantation is a procedure in which fetal cells are implanted into the brains of people with Parkinson’s disease to replace the dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra. Although promising, this area of research is one of the most controversial. Some studies have found that fetal cell transplantation caused an increase in severe involuntary movements due to too much dopamine in the brain. There are also moral and ethical objections to the use of fetal cell implants. As a result, other methods of treatment are being explored.
You May Like: Dyskinesia And Parkinson’s
How We Collect Your Personal Data
The data we collect depends on the context of your interactions with us and the choices that you make, including your privacy settings and the features that you use.
Most of the personal data that we collect about you will be information that you provide to us directly:
- when you register for an account with us and use our services
- when you register for a webinar, virtual event, or other content, host a webinar or take part in a webinar
- when you attend training with us
- when you fill in forms or correspond with us by post, phone, email or otherwise.
- When you subscribe to our service or publications
- when you take part in an event
- where you provide necessary information, e.g., for verification and billing purposes.
- when you take part in discussion boards or other forms of social media
- when you request marketing material to be sent to you
- when you enter a competition, promotion, or survey
We collect information through your behaviour and interactions with us:
In some circumstances we may also receive information from:
- regulatory bodies
- other companies supplying services to us
- data analytics to improve our website, products/services, marketing, customer relationships and experiences
- publicly accessible social media networks such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Google, and Twitter
- providers of technical, payment and delivery services
- publicly availably sources such as Companies House and LinkedIn
Click here for more information about our use of cookies and how to disable them.
How We Keep Your Personal Data Secure
We have put in place appropriate security measures to prevent your personal data from being accidentally lost, used or accessed in an unauthorised way, altered, or disclosed. In addition, we limit access to your personal data to those employees, agents, contractors and other third parties who have a business need to know. They will only process your personal data on our instructions, and they are subject to a duty of confidentiality.
You May Like: How To Reduce Hand Tremors In Parkinson’s
Boost Your Immune System
If you fear getting sick, its time to live a healthier lifestyle and boost your immune system. Sadly, we are taught that health comes from a needle or a pill. Our experts recommend masks, hand-washing, social distancing, and mRNA vaccines. Still, they seldom suggest a healthy diet, supplements, and other natural remedies to help improve our health and support the body to fight off illness and disease. 16 Tips on Boosting Immunity.
How Did You Get Into This Type Of Work
In my early 20s, I worked as a science teacher at one of the most dangerous public schools in NYC. After four years, I was so stressed out that I decided to leave my job and pick up meditation to better manage my stress.
One day, while meditating, I had the feeling I could heal with my hands. At the time I wasnt sure what that meant or if that was even possible. As a former science teacher, I was embarrassed to admit that I felt that way, but one day I worked up the courage to tell my friend that I thought I could heal with my hands, and to my surprise, she didnt think I was crazy! She suggested I stop by a local yoga studio to see if they were offering classes on how to heal with your hands. Sure enough, they were! The first course I took was Reiki. From that point forward, I became obsessed with understanding the science, benefits and principles behind energy healing.
Recommended Reading: How Is The Family Of A Person With Parkinson’s Affected
Risk Factors And Causes
There isnt one single cause of Parkinsons that has been proven at this time. Researchers believe a loss of the neurotransmitter dopamine, neurological damage, inflammation and brain cell deterioration are among the primary factors that trigger Parkinsons development. But why exactly patients develop these problems is a complex issue that remains up for debate.
What is known is that certain risk factors can make someone more susceptible to developing Parkinsons disease, which can include:
- Being a man, especially during older age. Research suggests that men in their 50s and 60s are most likely to develop Parkinsons.
- Genetic susceptibility: Studies have now identified several gene mutations that can put someone at a greater risk. Parkinsons has also been found to run in families, and having a sibling or parent increases someones risk.
- Damage to the area of the brain called the substantia nigra, which produces brain cells that are responsible for making dopamine.
- Toxicity and exposure to chemicals, including pesticides present on produce from non-organic farming. Living in a rural area and drinking well-water that might contain chemicals is another environmental risk factor.
- Poor diet, nutrient deficiencies, food allergies and an unhealthy lifestyle.
- Hormonal imbalances and other medical conditions that affect cognitive health and increase inflammation.
How Can You Address These Issues Proactively
If you live in the UK and havent already contacted your regional health providers patient liaison service and discussed provision of care for PWP in their local emergency department. Also, in the UK contact the national body dealing with emergency department accreditation, guidance, staffing and regulation to lobby them for proper provisions. Also, feel free to share this link with the services as it has much that can contribute to improving care for all vulnerable groups presenting to an Emergency Department in Britain.
In the US and in other regions the link for the Parkinsons Foundation Aware in Care Kit may be useful for emergency room visits.
To read more books and articles by Michael S. Okun MD check on and these websites with blogs and information on his books and #Livingwith Parkinsons #EndingPD #Parkinsonsecrets #LessonsFromTheBedside
He also serves as the Medical Advisor for the Parkinsons Foundation.
To see more on Dr. Indu Subramanian she does live interviews of experts in Parkinsons for the PMD Alliance.
The blog artist is Jonny Acheson.
One of the most important things to prevent falling in Parkinsons disease is to put on a good pair of shoes everyday. Check out our
Flip flops and open back shoes can potentially lead to instability and contribute to falling.
We do not recommend standing when putting your shoes on with Parkinsons.
Picture by Jonny Acheson
Recommended Reading: Is Parkinson’s Disease Fatal
Eye Doctor Cannot Find Anything Wrong
Parkinsons disease can sometimes impact vision. Some people with Parkinsons Disease may experience increased blurriness, double vision, difficulty with vision in low light conditions , or difficulty judging distances . This is because Parkinsons disease can affect your acuity, contrast sensitivity, and visual perception. If you are noticing these types of changes, visit an occupational therapist. They will be able to help you find ways to improve your vision.
To read more books and articles by Michael S. Okun MD check on and these websites with blogs and information on his books and #Livingwith Parkinsons #EndingPD #Parkinsonsecrets #LessonsFromTheBedside
He also serves as the Medical Advisor for the Parkinsons Foundation.
To see more on Dr. Indu Subramanian she does live interviews of experts in Parkinsons for the PMD Alliance.
The blog artist is Jonny Acheson.
Do I Have A Parkinsons Disease Lawsuit
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Parkinsons Disease induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease from the toxic herbicide Paraquat , you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Disease Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at 920-0753.
Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.
Don’t Miss: Late Stages Of Parkinson’s Disease
You May Also Want To Watch:
Bill’s father passed away in 2020 following complications related to the condition.
He added: There is currently no cure for Parkinsons, but by funding promising research, we can accelerate the development of better treatments for the condition.
Bill Bucklew has completed a number of events to raise funds for Parkinsons research, including the Ironman Triathlon, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and numerous marathons. – Credit: Courtesy of Bill Bucklew