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When someone hears the words, "You have Parkinson's," life changes instantly. Scott remembers that moment. Newly diagnosed and unsure of what came next, he reached out to Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson's and connected with a care adviser.
After that first conversation Scott said to his new care adviser, "You are a lifeline."
Parkinson's is a neurodegenerative disease - the second most common after Alzheimer's - and the rate of diagnosis is rising, even among people in their 50s. Nearly 90,000 Americans are diagnosed each year. While it primarily affects movement, it also impacts sleep, confidence, and daily life.
"One of the only things we know that truly helps slow the progression of Parkinson's disease is consistent exercise, says Traci Willingham, Community Relations and Engagement Director for Neuro Challenge Foundation. Across six Florida counties - Sarasota, Manatee, Pinellas, Highlands, Marion, and Charlotte - Neuro Challenge Foundation offers support and therapeutic programs, such as boxing, Tae Kwon Do, dance, singing, yoga and cycling. These classes are designed to strengthen the body and restore confidence and are available both in person or online at no cost.
Three years ago, Mike and Sharon faced a Parkinson's diagnosis together. "Thankfully, she realized the importance of medication and exercise," Mike said. Sharon now exercises three days a week with a Parkinson's group and two days at a gym. Through her program in Pinellas County, Mike joined a support group facilitated by a care adviser with Neuro Challenge Foundation. "The knowledge regarding all the programs and services provided by Neuro Challenge Foundation that I have acquired is beyond words," he said.
Attending The Parkinson's Expo became a turning point. "Last year's Expo was a life changer for my wife. One of the doctors presenting made a recommendation to help correct her sleep disorder. Finally, a good night's sleep," Mike said. This past year, they discovered the mentor program and plan to give back by supporting others. That's the ripple effect: Those who once needed guidance become the ones offering it.
Another inspiring program is the Off-Key Chorale, a seasonal singing-based therapeutic class in partnership with Key Chorale. Participants strengthen their voice, often weakened by Parkinson's, and gain confidence and community. The class culminates in a performance at the end of each season, and this year they will perform at the foundation's Cause 4 Hope gala, which raises funds to support nearly 3,500 families annually.
On March 28, Neuro Challenge Foundation will host The Parkinson's Expo at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, one of the nation's largest educational events dedicated to Parkinson's. With exhibitors, interactive demos, expert speakers, and thousands participating in-person and online, it's a day to educate, empower, and connect.
For Scott, it started with a phone call. For Sharon, with movement. For Mike, with a support group. For all, it became a community that shows Parkinson's changes life but does not end it.