April has been declared Parkinson’s Disease Awareness MonthFor the third consecutive year. Parkinson’s disease (PD), patients around the globe and people who have been affected by the disease, gather in their local communities to spread awareness and educate others about the facts, symptoms, and treatments.
The Parkinson’s Unity Walk (PUW), in New York’s Central Park, is one of the most important events during April. On Saturday, April 28, thousands PD supporters will gather at the park’s famed park to raise funds and awareness for PD research. Walkers will have the chance to visit supporter booths and learn more about managing their disease. Participants from PUW will have the opportunity to walk the Teva booth’s “red carpet” this year. Teva is committed supporting patients and their caregivers in the PD community. Booth visitors will be able to participate in a red carpet interview with a professional and have their picture taken.
“I cannot stress how rewarding it has been to me to be involved with community action like PUW,” says PD Star Israel Robledo. Israel has been living with PD since 2005. I have been able to continue doing the things I love, with the support of my family, good healthcare and an effective medication regime.
PD can affect cognitive ability as well as motor skill function. There is no cure for PD. However, there are many ways to manage symptoms. Dopamine is a chemical that controls movement and coordination. Dopamine levels in PD are decreased, which can affect a person’s ability control movement. Dopamine deficiency can be treated by medications. These medications either replace dopamine or prevent it from being broken down.
Visit this site for more information on PD. www.parkinsonshealth.com.
