PFP-Partnerships for Parkinson's Step Closer to a Cure

"We would accomplish many more things if we did not think of them as impossible."
-Vince Lombardi

Thoughts from the Executive Director of Partnerships for Parkinson's

What "image" comes to mind when you think about Parkinson's Disease? With nearly one in five now diagnosed under the age of fifty, the "face" of Parkinson's is truly changing. This group will surely impact the future with the heavy financial burden that they will impose upon society. Living longer with the disease will add the obvious direct medical costs but there is the hidden cost as well. This is a group not retired but in their peak earning years that will be forced from payrolls onto disability lists. A double financial whammy moving from supporter to supported. But it is also a group full of passion and desire for a cure. A group filled with optimism and innovation. Need an inspiring lift? Look at some of those in this group.

Look at Geofff and Pam Parker. July 4 2011 marked the start of their climb up Mount Kilimanjero. A daunting task for any fit person but nothing short of remarkable and awe inspiring when you consider Geoff has Parkinson's.

Kristin Kemper looks to music for joy. She regularly attends concerts where the Minnesota Orchestra performs. You could call here a true lover and supporter of the arts. Just one thing, her seat is on the stage. She is a concert violinist and yes she plays with Parkinson's. If not enough she enlists the arts to support her and her Parkinson's peers. Each spring Kristin holds the "Awakenings" Concert in Minneapolis as a benefit for the Struther's Parkinson's Center. Its a beautiful tune.

Just regular "folk" who look at life in a new light. Not unlike this writer, who decided to give meaning to having been diagnosed with an incurable disease. A few of the stories are featured within these web pages. Stories that offer hope, stories that will inspire, stories about regular "folk" who offer------

Optimism.

indeed!

Remember to "Pass it On."