It has been nearly 15 years since I first heard the words: "You Have Parkinson's".  After looking back at the past 15 years, I have come to the realization that PD is a very complex disease to manage.  There is a saying in the Parkinson's community that "if you've met one person with Parkinson's Disease, then you have met one person with Parkinson's Disease."  The point being that no two people with Parkinson's experience the same symptoms, have the same rate of progression, or react the same to therapies and drugs.  So, as much as we would like there to be a magic pill that eradicates PD, that seems to be a lofty goal for researchers.  Yes, there are some new drugs that address symptom relief, but the fact is that the gold standard of therapeutic drugs to treat PD remains Levodopa, which was approved by the FDA way back in 1970.   

So, realizing that there is no likely cure coming anytime soon, that leaves an ever-increasing number of people with Parkinson's wondering how they can live their best, most fulfilling life, moving forward.  This is why the Michigan Parkinson Foundation is so important to our community.  The Michigan Parkinson Foundation provides FAME for thousands of people affected by Parkinson's Disease throughout the state of Michigan (and beyond!)

Facilitate:  MPF facilitates 70+ support groups, reaching every county in Michigan.  These support groups are so valuable in helping folks meet with others in their local area to socialize, and learn from each other.

Alleviate:  MPF alleviates the financial burden that this disease incurs on those in need.  From helping fund respite care, to providing legal services in filing for Social Security disability, and subsidizing expensive drugs as well as offsetting the cost of walking aids and wheel chairs.  

Motivate:  MPF staff is incredibly upbeat and optimistic, particularly in the exercise classes they offer.  This fundraising Walk is a great example as thousands of people throughout Metro Detroit come together to celebrate life, and each other - all of these classes and events provide great HOPE for those of us touched by PD.

Educate:  MPF provides a wealth of critical information through its monthly PD 101 class, its Virtual Education series, its symposiums and mentorship program all of which support the adage that Knowledge is Power.

The revenues from our fundraising events are essential to help ensure that no person with Parkinson’s in Michigan and their families are without quality care and support.  To date, we have been able to say “YES” to all that need our help with support from individuals like you.