Parkinson's Awareness Month Toolkit 2011

APRIL 2011

Shatter the Myths

Parkinson’s Awareness Month Toolkit

one community working for a cure www.pdf.org/parkinson_awareness

“Awareness of Parkinson’s leads to compassion,

compassion leads to giving, giving leads to research, and research will lead to a cure.”

Pam Quinn

January 2011 Dear Friend, Thank you for helping to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease (PD) in April 2011! This year’s goal is to “Shatter the Myths” about what it means to live with Parkinson’s.

There are nearly one million people in the US and an estimated seven to 10 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s. Since Parkinson’s was first identified nearly 200 years ago, we have made progress in understanding and treating the disease. But … we have yet to find a cure.

Together, we must continue to 1) fund scientific research, 2) ensure the Parkinson’s community has access to the latest information and 3) increase awareness among the general public about the realities of this disease.

This April, how can you participate?

• Spread the Word: Raise awareness about Parkinson’s Awareness Month among your community, neighbors, friends, loved ones and even health professionals. By contacting local media with your story, wearing a Parkinson’s awareness t-shirt, or displaying the Parkinson’s Quilt in your community — YOU can spread the word.

• Educate Yourself and Others: Education about Parkinson’s can help improve disease management among people living with the disease and can also help to shatter some myths about the disease. Help to bring the latest information to families affected by Parkinson’s by setting up an educational event or participating in PDF’s video and photo campaign. Work to raise awareness of Parkinson’s among your community members and explain why their help is needed to move our cause forward.

• Support the Cure: We all want a world without Parkinson’s. But we need your help in getting there. Whether it’s hosting a local fundraiser or participating in the Parkinson’s Unity Walk in New York City, your efforts can raise funds that benefit cutting-edge scientific research.

This toolkit provides you with resources for participating in a Parkinson’s Awareness Month campaign. You can also find this toolkit online at www.pdf.org/parkinson_awareness.

Many of the materials in this kit can be re-used with your logo and local information. After all, none of us can raise awareness alone.

Please contact us if you have additional suggestions and let us know your plans for Parkinson’s Awareness Month. We look forward to working together this April.

Sincerely,

Robin Elliott Executive Director

Table of Contents Spread the Word Help the public understand this disease that affects seven to 10 million people worldwide.

• Awareness Profiles: Spreading the Word ................................................. 2 • Focus the Media on Parkinson’s .............................................................. 3 o Sample Press Release ....................................................................... 6 o Sample Letter to the Editor ............................................................... 7 • Involve Public Officials ............................................................................. 8 o Sample 2011 City/State Proclamation ................................................ 9 • Sign the Global Parkinson’s Pledge ......................................................... 10 • Parkinson’s Awareness Month T-Shirt Contest ........................................ 10 • Bring the Parkinson’s Quilt to Your Community ....................................... 11 • Partner with Your Local Library ................................................................. 12 • Spread the Word Online .......................................................................... 13 Educate Yourself and Others Ensure that all people with Parkinson’s have access to the latest information about disease management and treatments.

• • • • • •

Awareness Profiles: Educating Yourself and Others ................................. 14 Shatter the Myths of Parkinson’s............................................................. 15 Host an Educational and Awareness-Raising Event ................................. 16 Attend an Event ....................................................................................... 16 Help to Ensure the Best Nursing Care for PD ......................................... 17 Get Creative ............................................................................................. 17

Support the Cure Donate, host a fundraising event or attend one in your community.

Let others know about our urgency for funding to find new treatments and a cure.

• • • • •

Awareness Profiles: Supporting the Cure ................................................ 18 Plan a Fundraising Event .......................................................................... 19 PDF’s 30 in 30 Parkinson’s Awareness Month Event Challenge ............. 21 Dress Casual at Work to Raise Funds ...................................................... 22 Shop to Support PDF ............................................................................... 22

Awareness Tools • • • • •

Parkinson’s FAQ ......................................................................................

PDF’s Publication Catalogue ...................................................................

PDF’s Parkinson’s Awareness Month Calendar .......................................

“Build Your Own” Awareness Month Calendar .......................................

The Parkinson’s Tulip ................................................................................

24 26 29 30 31

Spread the Word How can you help spread the word about Parkinson’s?

Here’s an example of how one woman made her voice heard in the community.

Awareness Profiles: Spreading the Word Arizona Mom Wins PDF’s Parkinson’s Awareness Month T-Shirt Contest

PARKINSON’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

In 2010, PDF launched its first Parkinson’s Awareness Month T-Shirt Design Contest, which challenged members of the Parkinson’s community to design a t-shirt incorporating the Parkinson’s tulip and PDF’s trademark colors, yellow and green. The winning design would be distributed by PDF at the Parkinson’s Unity Walk in New York City in April and offered exclusively through PDF’s online store.

Heather Hinrichsen, a 36-year old mom who lives with young onset Parkinson’s disease, decided to give it a try. Her entry — the Fight to Win design — received over 800 of the 1,900 votes, quickly jumping to the top of the list and beating out four other finalists. Ms. Hinrichsen said “I hope that by sharing my story, people will realize that Parkinson’s is not just an older person’s disease. It can strike younger people. Through the t-shirt, I want to spread the message to everyone to fight PD. I plan to fight until I win — I have PD, but it doesn't have me.”

(See information on this year’s t-shirt contest on page 10).

2

Spread the Word

Focus the Media on Parkinson’s April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month! A media outreach campaign can help raise visibility of PD in your community and around the country.

The key to media outreach is starting early. The following tips will guide you through your media outreach.

Tell Your Story

|

Perhaps you have been living with Parkinson’s for years and want to spread awareness. Maybe you have a loved one living with PD and raised funds through an event in their honor or you are an artist who finds therapeutic benefit from your artwork.

Either way, no one can tell your story about Parkinson’s better than you. Start jotting down ideas about what you’d like to communicate.

Educate Yourself and Others

No matter what your story, it is important to include facts too. Statistics (for instance, the fact that nearly one million Americans are living with PD) will help others to understand your story in context. (See page 24 for statistics).

Write a Press Release A press release is a tool that will enable you to share your story. It should be personal and interesting while also relevant to the broader community. Keep it short and include facts about your work or event — who, what, where, when, why and how. If you know that your event will be a large community event or include a moving personal story, highlight that. A sample press release is included on page 6.

Using this template, you can insert your own story and facts.

Build a Media List • Research a list of local reporters.

• Start with the media outlets with which you are already familiar — your local newspapers, radio stations and news stations (many contacts can be found by doing a simple Internet search or by calling the main number of the publication/outlet).

|

• Which reporters would be most receptive to your story? Consider a reporter’s “beat.” Often for local papers, it is the community news, community health or science reporters who may be most interested. Record each potential reporter’s name and contact information. If there is more than one editor for each beat listed, it is okay to initially reach out to all of them.

• Follow-up! Many reporters are overwhelmed with stories irrelevant to their beat.

It’s important to send your information to the right person and follow up to ensure that they have seen your release.

3

Support the Cure

• Contact reporters in advance with a phone call or pitch letter to introduce yourself.

Suggested Media Outlets • Health producers at local news station

• Hospital medical newsletters

• Radio stations

• Online bulletin boards

• Community or health editors at local newspaper

• Calendar of events for your neighborhood

• Web staff at local newspapers or broadcast outlets

Send the Press Release to Your Media List • The easiest way to communicate with the media is through email, although some do prefer calls.

• In the subject heading of your email, include a phrase that is concise and eye-catching (i.e., Local Resident Aims to Raise $5,000 for Parkinson’s Research).

• Keep your email short; include an introduction and state your purpose for writing.

Tell the reporter that your press release is included in the email and then copy/paste it within the actual text of the email. Do not send the release as an attachment. Attachments are often marked as spam and so your email will never reach the editor’s inbox.

• If you have to/prefer to call first: o Devise a list of talking points before calling, much like those you would have said if you initially emailed your release. Reporters may not have much time to chat. o Utilize the “elevator pitch” method. This means that you have about 30 to 90 seconds to get your contact interested in wanting to hear more. If the person is interested, he or she will also ask for a follow-up email and this is where you should include more details of your event as well as your sample press release.

Follow–Up • Follow-up is one of the most important tasks after reaching out to your targeted media list. Reporters are used to follow-up, so do not be afraid to call many times.

Follow-up emails are also helpful — state that you wanted to make sure they received your previous email and re-state why you contacted them initially.

• Follow instructions! If a reporter’s voicemail asks you not to leave a message regarding pitch emails, then do not, but continue to call.

• When calling, be prepared and polite.

4

Spread the Word

• If you have received confirmation of receipt of your email, ask if there is anything else that you can provide for the reporter. If he or she is receptive, ask if the reporter would be interested in writing about your event or Parkinson’s Awareness Month in general. For instance if you are working on a proclamation locally (see next section), provide a copy for the reporter.

• If a reporter seems as if he or she needs more convincing, tell him or her that you have a media kit prepared with more information (see suggestions below). We have provided samples for material you may want to place in your media kit.

|

Develop a Media Kit • Your kit can include: o Press release (see page 6)

Educate Yourself and Others

o Parkinson’s disease facts (see page 24) o Proclamation from the President, your governor or mayor (see page 9) o Flyer or promotional information for your event, if applicable

Sample Media Schedule February and March • Select your targeted media outlets.

• Find the specific contacts for each outlet that you will reach out to.

• Fill in the personalized material on the sample press release.

• Develop your talking points for the phone and your selling points for the pitch email.

• Draft your email so it is ready to go by the end of March (or before if your event is early in the month).*

|

• Send out your press release.* * If your event will be held in early April, readjust the timeline to maximize the time you have to get media coverage.

• Send follow-up emails and make follow-up calls to reporters.

• Continue to be persistent and follow up again.

• Once you have set up coverage for your event, confirm all details.

• After the event has been covered, send thank you notes to the reporters who worked with you to get your story heard.

5

Support the Cure

April

Sample Press Release For Immediate Release [Contact name] [Organization name, if applicable] [Contact phone number] [Contact email]

[Insert Community Name, Organization] Plans Community Awareness Initiative for Parkinson’s Disease [Your City, State] – This April, millions of people around the world will recognize April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month. [Community Name] residents are working hard to make their contribution on a local level. [If you are writing about an event, include the details here.]

[Group Name] invites [Community Name] to participate in Parkinson’s Awareness Month by [attending our event on date, place, time or visiting our Awareness Display at Town Hall].

Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder that is chronic and progressive. It affects many in our own community, such as [Individual Name]. Not only that: • Nearly one million Americans are living with Parkinson’s.

• Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year, and this number does not reflect the thousands of cases that go undetected.

• Seven to 10 million people worldwide are estimated to be living with Parkinson’s disease.

• Incidence of Parkinson’s increases with age, but an estimated four percent of people with Parkinson’s are diagnosed before the age of 50.

Unfortunately, the cause of Parkinson’s is unknown and presently, there is no cure. That’s why [Group Name] is rallying [Community Name] this April to raise awareness and funds for a cure.

As local resident [Name] said, [Insert a personal quote here telling your story as a person living with Parkinson’s, caregiver, fundraiser, etc.]

[Group Name] invites all community members to join them in raising Parkinson’s awareness by [Include your call to action or Event Name].

About Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nearly one million people in the US. Although promising research is being conducted, there is currently no cure for or definitive cause of Parkinson’s disease. ###

6

Spread the Word

Sample Letter to the Editor

| Educate Yourself and Others

r To the Edito :

e part in hbors to tak ig e n r u o illion e urg Nearly one m . th This April, I n o M s s em, e Awaren d many of th n a ’s n o Parkinson’s s in ght here ve with Park are living ri .] tc e Americans li , d n a b s e, my hu [including m ity Name]. in [Commun . ently no cure There is curr ere.] onal story h rs e p r u o y rt [Inse y ateir support [b th w o h s to neighbors ation].

I invite our aking a don m r o t n e v e tending an ct [insert conta ct ta n co e s lea formation, p For more in ]. information

|

Your Name

Support the Cure

7

Involve Public Officials Public officials — mayors, governors, state legislators and their spouses — can help to make Parkinson’s Awareness Month a newsworthy event. Receiving a proclamation from a mayor or governor serves the purpose of increasing awareness about Parkinson’s disease and the continued need for research for better treatments and a cure.

For more information on partnering with political representatives, contact the Parkinson’s Action Network (PAN) at (800) 850-4726 or www.parkinsonsaction.org.

Tips for Passing the Word to Public Officials • Allow plenty of lead time. Getting a proclamation approved and signed can be a lengthy process. Plan to make frequent follow-up phone calls.

• Coordinate with others in the community. Has your state or community had a proclamation signed in past years? Who is handling it this year? To find out and ensure you can work together with other advocates already requesting a proclamation or interested in joining you, contact PAN at (800) 850-4726.

• You are more likely to get a public official’s involvement if you invite other local Parkinson’s organizations and prominent individuals to join you in submitting the request.

• Send your request on the letterhead of one lead organization and include the signatures of all other coalition members. Choose one person to represent the group in the cover letter.

• If you are requesting that a public official sign a proclamation, include a copy of it with your letter.

• If you are requesting that a public official participate in a Parkinson’s Awareness Month event, include the date, time, location and a brief description in your letter.

Also note the names of any other invited public officials, any sponsors of the event, a general description of the audience and the role you would like the person to play.

• Contact information for city/state officials can be found in your telephone directory.

If you wish to invite an official’s spouse, call the official’s office and ask for the name of the staff person who handles the spouse’s correspondence and scheduling.

• Publicize your efforts (See Media Tips on page 3).

PR Veteran Lobbies for Parkinson’s Awareness Month in Two Cities In 2010, just two years after a Parkinson’s diagnosis, California resident and former public relations professional Terry Shapiro lobbied Whittier Mayor Bob Henderson and Culver City Governor Andrew Weissman to recognize Parkinson’s Awareness Month in their cities. She says, “The more that the public understands the challenges of Parkinson’s and the more that individuals raise awareness, the easier it will be for researchers to make progress in finding the causes of PD.”

8

Spread the Word

Sample Proclamation

Parkinson’s Awareness Month Proclamation

|

WHEREAS, Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological movement disorder of the central nervous system, which has a unique impact on each patient; and

Educate Yourself and Others

WHEREAS, according to the Parkinson’s Action Network, the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, the National Parkinson Foundation, the American Parkinson Disease Association and the National Institutes of Health, there are over one million Americans diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease; and WHEREAS, symptoms include slowness, tremor, difficulty with balance and speaking, rigidity, cognitive and memory problems; and WHEREAS, although new medicines and therapies may enhance life for some time for people with Parkinson’s, more work is needed for a cure; and WHEREAS, increased education and research are needed to help find more effective treatments with fewer side effects and ultimately a cure for Parkinson’s disease; and WHEREAS, a multidisciplinary approach to Parkinson’s disease care includes local Wellness, Support, and Caregiver Groups; and WHEREAS, April has been proclaimed as World Wide Parkinson’s Awareness Month for all to recognize the need for more research and help in dealing with the devastating effects of Parkinson’s disease.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, __________________, MAYOR/GOVERNOR of the City/ State of _________________, do hereby proclaim April as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month in _________________.

|

_______________________________ Mayor/Governor Attest: _______________________________

9

Support the Cure

Given under my hand in these free United States in the City of __________________, on this day of two thousand eleven, and to which I have caused the Seal of the City of __________________ to be affixed and have made this proclamation public.

Sign the Global Parkinson’s Pledge You can support the global effort to fight Parkinson's disease (PD) today … by simply signing your name to the new Global Parkinson’s Pledge. The pledge was announced at the 2nd World Parkinson Congress in September 2010 in Glasgow, Scotland.

The community has created this pledge to work for increased awareness of Parkinson's, new treatments and a cure. The World Parkinson Congress seeks to have one million signatures on the pledge by the next meeting in 2013.

Can you help them meet their goal?

Sign your name today at www.parkinsonspledge.org.

Vote in the Parkinson’s Awareness Month T-Shirt Contest PDF is hosting its second Parkinson’s Awareness Month T-Shirt Contest!

Last year, the winning design — Fight to Win — was worn by hundreds of people throughout the US (see story on page 2).

A committee of judges from PDF's Creativity and Parkinson’s Project and People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council will choose five finalists designs and the general public will vote for their favorite. The results will be announced in March 2011, and the winning design will be available exclusively at PDF’s online store and distributed at the PDF booth to participants of the Parkinson’s Unity Walk in New York City.

Make sure your vote is counted!

Check www.pdf.org in late February/ early March for finalist announcements and to order your t-shirt.

10

r you ge a im h e re

Spread the Word

Bring the Parkinson’s Quilt to Your Community What’s a powerful way to show the impact of Parkinson’s? Bring the Parkinson’s Quilt to your neighborhood! PDF’s Parkinson’s Quilt is the first global quilt to focus the world’s attention on Parkinson’s disease, aiming to raise awareness of the impact that the disease has on individuals living with it and on the community's urgency to find a cure.

|

Each of the more than 600 quilt panels was made by a person living with or affected

by Parkinson’s disease. The quilt was displayed for the first time at the 2nd World Parkinson Congress in Glasgow, Scotland in September 2010.

Educate Yourself and Others

Sections of the quilt are now available for rental by individuals, nonprofit organizations, corporations and other institutions for a modest fee. A section of the Parkinson’s Quilt can be the perfect centerpiece for an awareness or fundraising event for support groups, in academic settings, or at libraries and the workplace.

Because April is Parkinson’s Awareness month, the quilt will be in high demand at this time! If you are interested in renting a section of the quilt this April, please send in your application as soon as possible. To learn more about renting and displaying the quilt, or to view the sections online, visit www.pdf.org/quilt.

Display the Parkinson’s Quilt to show the impact of PD.

Looking to raise awareness of PD? Holding an educational event with your support group?

8’ x 8’ quilt panels are now available for you to display, at a modest fee to cover expenses.

|

Visit www.pdf.org/quilt.

Support the Cure

11

Partner with Your Local Library Libraries all over the US are participating in Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Are you connected to your local library? Contact us to participate and run these ideas past your local library.

Who Should You Talk to?

Your contact will vary, depending on how your library works. Some libraries utilize their volunteer committees to handle new events. Others will point you towards a specific staff person or the library director.

Types of Events • Create a Parkinson’s display in the library. Many libraries have an area they use for these sorts of activities. Offer PDF or other educational materials so that those visiting the library can learn more about Parkinson’s.

• Use the display to advertise any other fundraising or awareness-raising events in your neighborhood.

• Partner with other groups active with the library to host an educational event or build Parkinson’s into one of their events. For instance, many libraries have healthrelated groups that put on educational events each month. They may be open to focusing their April event on Parkinson’s!

• Publicize your event in library newsletters, flyers, websites and bulletin boards.

• Plan a book fair with a health theme. Invite local expert speakers to provide “miniseminars” on Parkinson’s and related topics at the library throughout the day.

Display Educational Materials Distribute Parkinson’s materials to library visitors. PDF offers materials free of charge (some are available in both English and Spanish).

See our publication catalogue on page 26 and contact us to place your order.

12

Spread the Word

Spread the Word Online!

Raise awareness among your friends and family online.

Here are some suggestions: • Dedicate your Facebook status to raising awareness about Parkinson’s during April.

• Send personalized eCards from the PDF website to your friends and family to encourage them to join the fight to find the cure (http://support.pdf.org/ecards).

|

• If you have a birthday that falls in April, set up the option for your Facebook friends to donate to a Parkinson’s organization for your birthday.

• Publicize your event! Submit details about your event at www.pdf.org/event_calen dar and it could be published on PDF’s website!

Educate Yourself and Others

Connect with PDF Get the latest scientific updates, news about PDF’s educational materials and events, and connect with others in the Parkinson’s community!

Blogger: www.pdf.org/blog Facebook: www.pdf.org/facebook Twitter: www.pdf.org/twitter You Tube: www.pdf.org/youtube Flickr: www.pdf.org/flickr

| Support the Cure

13

Educate Yourself and Others How can you help educate yourself and others about Parkinson’s disease?

Here’s an example of how one man used his artistic talents to teach others about the impact of Parkinson’s.

Awareness Profiles: Educating Yourself and Others Artist Brings Passion for Martinis and Music to Parkinson’s Quilt Project Larry Schneider Jr. used his artistic gifts during April 2010 to contribute to PDF’s Parkinson’s Quilt Project — the first initiative of its kind to bring the world’s attention to Parkinson’s disease. Mr. Schneider, 40, has lived with PD since the age of 27. He has been an artist for his entire life, working in college as a free-hand illustrator and now as a computer graphic artist.

He put his skills to use by creating two quilt panels. The first, entitled, “Park N Sons Martini Bar and Lounge (Always Shaken, Never Stirred),” is a light-hearted take on his PD. The second, a tribute to music, features an image of him playing bass guitar. He says, “Although Parkinson's has affected my life, I am still a husband, a father and an artist. I feel positive about anything I can do to help raise awareness about Parkinson’s.”

14

Host an Educational and Awareness Raising Event April is a great time to increase knowledge within the Parkinson’s community about the latest disease management tips, research news and coping strategies.

Help by hosting an educational event, either with your support group and/or in a hospital or clinic.

Here are some ideas: • Offer educational materials and link people with Parkinson’s and their families to local resources, such as your local Area Agency on Aging.

• Provide guest speakers — such as Parkinson’s doctors, people with Parkinson’s and nurses — to describe life with Parkinson’s. Try contacting your doctor, local university or a movement disorder center with PD specialists to find a speaker.

• Ask your entire group to gather together on Tuesday, April 12 at 1:00 PM ET for PDF’s online educational seminar, “What’s in the Parkinson’s Pipeline?”. Plan a discussion of the topic after the event for your members (see www.pdf.org/parkinsononline).

• Ask to include a Parkinson’s booth at a local health fair.

• Issue press releases and publicize your event in local papers, newsletters, on websites and through local media or schedule a press conference (See page 3 ).

• Add a creative element to your event! Display the Parkinson’s Quilt and distribute the Creativity and Parkinson’s calendar, which features the inspiring works of 13 people with PD who find artwork therapeutic for their PD symptoms (see www.pdf.org/creativity and www.pdf.org/quilt or read more on pages 11 and 17).

• Gear your event towards clinical research education and display materials from PDF and PDtrials, of which PDF is a leading member (www.PDtrials.org).

Display Educational Materials Distribute Parkinson’s materials at your event.

PDF offers materials free of charge (some are available in both English and Spanish).

See our publication catalogue on page 26 and contact us to place your order.

Attend an Event Not planning your own event? Attend someone else’s! Visit www.pdf.org/event_calendar for a listing of events nationwide.

16

Spread the Word

Help to Ensure the Best Nursing Care for PD As you know, nurses play a key role in providing quality care and ensuring that people with Parkinson’s have the best possible quality of life. Yet, many nurses have asked for better access to current treatment and core strategies to assist people with Parkinson’s disease and their families.

|

A new free online course — Parkinson’s Disease Across the Lifespan: A Roadmap for Nurses — gives nurses the opportunity to learn the latest in Parkinson’s comprehensive care. The course consists of four modules, each about one and a half hours in length, all led by Parkinson’s nurse specialists, physical therapists and people with PD. Nurses can watch the four modules and take brief exams following each one.

The course is available online at http://support.pdf.org/nursing.

Educate Yourself and Others

Over 4,000 nurses — from all 50 US states and 25 countries worldwide — have registered to take the course to date. How can you help to ensure the best nursing care for people with Parkinson’s?

If you are a: • Nurse: View the free online course, Parkinson’s Disease Across the Lifespan: A Roadmap for Nurses and earn continuing education credits.

• Person living with or affected by Parkinson’s: Bring this article to your doctor’s office or local hospital and ask them to participate.

• Nursing Educator: Show the online course to your students and ask them to complete the online tests at home.

Watch today.

http://support.pdf.org/nursing.

Get Creative

|

Do you want to share your Parkinson’s experience with the PD community?

Get creative and share your story or a work of art, music or poetry with PDF through our Creativity and Parkinson’s Project!

More than 270 people have contributed their artwork to PDF … we invite you to join them! To browse our art gallery, go to www.pdf.org/gallery.

Want to submit your own work? Email creativity@pdf.org or call (800) 4576676 for more information.

17

Support the Cure

PDF’s Creativity and Parkinson’s Project is an initiative that seeks to explore, support and encourage the possible therapeutic value of creativity in Parkinson’s disease. Research has shown that creative activities — such as painting, singing, sculpting, dancing and even exercising — may temporarily ease symptoms associated with Parkinson’s.

Support the Cure How can you help support the cure?

Hold an event — a bake sale, a car wash, even setting up a lemonade stand can help. In the fight against Parkinson’s disease, every penny counts! Here’s a story that reminds us that contributions come in all shapes and sizes.

Awareness 2010: Supporting the Cure Dear PDF, I wanted to let you all know about something special my kids did.

One Saturday in May, my children, Matthew, age 10 and Juliana, age eight and their friend, Canyon, decided to operate a lemonade stand in front of our house.

They had been outside for a while and had already needed a refill on the lemonade when I went out to check on them. I was wearing my Parkinson’s Awareness Month T-Shirt and they asked me about it. So I explained what PDF was and a little about Parkinson’s disease.

My son said, “Hey! That gives me an idea. Let’s donate the money we make to PDF to help Honey!” (Honey is their Grandmother who has Parkinson’s).

They all agreed to donate it. I was very proud of them and think it is a great thing to do with their money!

Please accept the donation of $20.40 from my children’s lemonade stand.

Thank you.

Rhonda

18

Spread the Word

Plan a Fundraising Event April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month! This is a great time to raise awareness and funds that can support the Parkinson’s cause. Donate, host an event or attend one to let the community know about the urgency for new treatments and a cure.

Fundraising can seem daunting for some, but grassroots fundraising can actually be the most effective! Last year, supporters of PDF raised nearly $110,000 for the Parkinson’s Awareness Month Challenge.

You too can do it! Friends and family connected to your cause want to support you.

|

Here are some fundraising tips and tools to help you plan for your event. Contact PD organizations, including PDF, for further guidance in planning your event.

Educate Yourself and Others

Fundraising Ideas There are many different types of events to choose from to raise money for the Parkinson’s cause. Here we provide some ideas from PDF’s fundraising staff. If you have an idea for a unique fundraiser, go with it!

• Sports — Get up and go!

Many athletes channel their energy into raising money by running, biking, dancing, organizing a golf tournament or participating in a walk-a-thon. If there is a sport that you particularly enjoy, why not do it to raise money for Parkinson’s?

• Workplace Giving — Making your work, work for you!

Many companies already have philanthropic giving programs, so ask your human resources department about matching gifts, corporate sponsorship and any other giving programs available. You can also get your colleagues involved by organizing an annual work fundraiser to benefit PD, or asking them to participate in an event you have planned for outside of work.

|

• Providing Services — Give a little, get a lot!

Everyone needs their cars washed ... dogs bathed … and who doesn’t enjoy a good bake sale? These are just a few things you can do to provide a needed service to community members and raise funds at the same time!

There are many more ways to raise funds for Parkinson’s. Perhaps your child’s school could take on a class fundraising project, or maybe your local businesses would be inclined to designate five percent of their profits during April to PDF. If you have an idea, do not hesitate to ask — you never know until you do!

19

Support the Cure

• Special Events — Turning get-togethers into money-makers!

Fundraising presents the perfect opportunity to get your friends together doing something that you all enjoy — while supporting PDF! Ask people to “ante up” for a poker tournament, or sell tickets to a barbecue, picnic or a fun theme party.

Letter Fundraising Basics lve a pering will invo is ra d n fu t s g your Mo m you, lettin o fr r e tt le l e a son know why th rily m fa d n a s impo friend ase cause is t and e is d ’s n o s Parkin ur even details of yo also tant to you, Most people es, . ls a o g g in fundrais l web pag and persona utilize emails ations like ugh organiz ro th le b ila a v a ave someod idea to h o g a ’s It .

F ke a look PD ood writer ta g a is o h w mmatical one edit it for gra some d n a w ie v to re are errors. Here and spelling to include: good things

• Personal information about yourself: Let people know why you have decided to fundraise for PDF. Why Parkinson’s disease?

How has the disease affected your life?

• General information about PDF or your PD organization: Be sure to include the organization contact info (like a website address and phone number) and let them know that the organization is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. Your donors want to know they are contributing to a legitimate charity.

• Your fundraising goal: This lets those who are donating know exactly how much money you are attempting to raise. Give specific instructions on how they can contribute (your personal webpage and a link to the PDF donation page) and include contribution forms.

• Use a bullet format: This allows you to highlight key points so people can get the most important information easily, like how to donate, details on your event and your fundraising goal.

How to Organize Your Event Planning is vital, no matter how simple or complex your event is.

To get started: • Make a plan and a budget. Make an outline of your fundraising activity. One way to increase the amount of money that you raise is to reduce costs. Think about the items you will need. This can include a venue, printing costs, food, beverages, etc.

Before you pay for these, ask local businesses to pitch in with cash or donated goods.

A large company may be willing to sponsor the entire event in return for publicity.

• It’s not what you know, it’s who you know! Recruit your family and friends to support your fundraising efforts. Form a small group to discuss your idea. They can help spread the word through their own networks. Utilizing social networks like your support group or online networks like Facebook and Twitter is a great way to engage friends. The more people you ask, the more money you raise — it’s that simple!

• Determine your objectives. Agree within your group what you aim to achieve. Think beyond just raising money (although this is important) and question how you might spread the word and educate other people about Parkinson’s disease. Use your objectives to develop an action plan detailing who is going to do what, and when.

20

Spread the Word

• Work with your employer. Most companies have a specific budget for community support. Some will donate goods or money and they may also match what their employees raise.

• Go public! Tell everyone you meet about your plans. Put up posters in the community church, shops, library and sports clubs. Ask permission first so they are not removed. In your publicity, emphasize PDF or your PD organization and the difference their support will make. Contact your local radio and press.

Sponsors are often willing to donate if they know that you are publicizing the event and may get media coverage. Tell them that it’s a great way to get their name out. Don’t forget to let us know too!

| Educate Yourself and Others

• Always say thank you. Don’t forget to thank all of your donors for their help and support. A great way to do this is to thank them with a letter telling of your fundraising success. Your thanks will keep people interested in Parkinson’s and let them know that their support has made a difference.

30 in 30 Parkinson’s Awareness Month Event Challenge Can YOU help PDF meet its goal of 30 events in 30 days this April?

PDF invites people with Parkinson’s, family members and friends to participate in the 30 in 30 Parkinson’s Awareness Month Event Challenge by holding their own awareness-raising and fundraising events in April. By signing up for the challenge, participants will become part of the PDF Champions, a group of grassroots fundraisers around the US who work in their local communities to move the Parkinson's cause forward. In the past, creative PDF Champions have designed walk-a-thons, bike ride events, bake sales and even golf tournaments!

Whatever type of event you decide to host, we'll help you plan it!

As a PDF Champion:

|

• You will have access to PDF's fundraising staff, who can provide tips on how to plan and coordinate an event.

• All participants will also receive an official PDF endorsement of their event(s) as well as PDF materials, technical assistance and recognition on the PDF website.

Sign Up Today: http://www.pdf.org/parkinson_champion_awareness_challenge.

21

Support the Cure

• All participants can also set up their own personal fundraising pages on the PDF website, where family and friends can view fundraising goals and event pictures, and make online donations!

Dress Casual at Work to Raise Funds!

Make dressing casual in your workplace a way to raise money for Parkinson’s research!

Organize a day when employees dress down or wear jeans in exchange for a small donation to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation.

If you can wear jeans every day, ask employees to wear a grey top. Display your commitment to the cause by wearing a Parkinson’s Awareness Month sticker.

To request stickers, contact PDF at info@pdf.org or (800) 457-6676.

Please allow three weeks to process your order.

Shop to Support PD! Wear your support on your sleeve ... literally!

• Shop on PDF’s Online Store: Items include the official Parkinson’s Awareness tshirt, which was designed by a person living with Parkinson’s. Also order mugs, bumper stickers and other items at www.pdf.org/shop_support_pdf.

• Shop For a Cause with iGive.com: Shop online at over 700 brand name stores and a portion of each purchase will be donated to PDF, when you choose us as your beneficiary. Participating stores include eBay, Barnes & Noble, Overstock.com, JCPenney, Best Buy, Gap, and NORDSTROM. Visit www.igive.com to learn more.

22

Awareness Tools

Parkinson's FAq The following facts and statistics about Parkinson’s can help you when building your press release and educational materials.

1. What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that involves the malfunction and death of vital nerve cells in the brain, called neurons.

Some of these dying neurons produce dopamine, a chemical that sends messages to the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination. As Parkinson’s progresses, the amount of dopamine produced in the brain decreases, leaving a person unable to control movement normally.

2. What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s?

The four key motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are tremor of the hands, arms, legs or jaw; muscle rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk; slowness of movement (bradykinesia); and postural instability (impaired balance and coordination).

Other common symptoms may include pain; dementia or confusion; fatigue; sleep disturbances; depression; constipation; cognitive changes; fear or anxiety; and urinary problems. All of these symptoms can vary from person to person.

3. How many people have Parkinson’s?

An estimated seven to 10 million people worldwide live with Parkinson’s disease.

In the United States, as many as one million individuals live with PD, which is more than the combined number of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig's disease. Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease each year, and this number does not reflect the thousands of cases that go undetected. Incidence of Parkinson’s increases with age, but an estimated four percent of people with PD are diagnosed before the age of 50. Statistics have shown that men are slightly more likely to have Parkinson’s disease than women.

4. What causes Parkinson’s?

As is the case with many neurological disorders, the cause of Parkinson’s disease is not known. However, scientists and researchers are working diligently to uncover the possible cause(s), including genetic and environmental factors, of Parkinson’s disease.

5. Is Parkinson’s inherited?

Although the vast majority of Parkinson’s cases are not directly inherited, researchers have discovered several genes that can cause the disease in a small number of families. Research on these rare genetic forms is contributing greatly to advancing the understanding of all forms of Parkinson's. In large population studies, researchers have found that people with an affected first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, have a four to nine percent higher chance of developing PD, as compared to the general population. This means that if a person’s parent has PD, his or her chances of developing the disease are slightly higher than the risk among the general population.

This publication is not a substitute for a physician’s diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease or for a physician’s prescription of drugs, treatment or operations for Parkinson’s disease.

24

6. How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?

There is no standard test to conclusively show if a person has Parkinson’s disease.

Because of this, it can often be difficult to diagnose. The disease should be diagnosed by a neurologist with experience and training in assessing and treating Parkinson’s, ideally a movement disorder specialist. Physicians rely on a neurological examination and the individual’s descriptions of symptoms to determine whether he or she has Parkinson’s. A neurologist may order several tests to rule out other conditions before diagnosing a person with Parkinson’s disease.

7. How do you treat Parkinson’s?

Although there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, there are treatment options available such as medication and surgery to manage its symptoms. Levodopa is the most widely prescribed Parkinson’s medication, and people often take several other medications to manage the disease. Surgical options, such as deep brain stimulation, may help alleviate a person’s Parkinson’s symptoms if and when they stop responding favorably to medication. However, surgery is only effective for a small group of people with Parkinson’s and is only recommended if an individual meets specific criteria.

8. Can people die from Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder, and although it is not considered to be a fatal disease, symptoms do worsen over time and make life difficult. People with Parkinson’s experience a significantly decreased quality of life and are often unable to perform daily movement functions, such as getting out of bed unaided and driving. Most individuals are eventually forced to stop working due to the unavoidable progression of disabling symptoms. In some cases, people have died from Parkinson’s-related complications, such as pneumonia.

9. What is the cost of Parkinson’s?

The amount of money that the United States and individuals spend each year on Parkinson’s is staggering. The combined direct and indirect cost of Parkinson’s disease, including treatment, social security payments and lost income from inability to work, is estimated to be nearly $25 billion per year in the United States alone.

Medication costs for an individual person with Parkinson’s average $2,500 a year, and therapeutic surgery can cost up to $100,000 per individual.

10. What can be done to find a cure for Parkinson’s?

Over the last decade, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have devoted significant resources to making substantial advances in neurosciences, in lab and animal studies as well as clinical trials. However, a potential crisis in Parkinson’s clinical research is looming because the number of people volunteering to participate in clinical trials is not keeping up with the growth of available trials. To find out about clinical trials and how to participate, please visit www.PDtrials.org, a website created by the PDtrials coalition to provide a listing of Parkinson’s clinical trials that are open for enrollment. To learn more about clinical research advocacy, visit www.pdf.org/clinical_trial_inv.

This fact sheet was originally published by the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation’s (PDF) in 2010. It is reprinted, in its entirety, with permission from PDF. For other publications, please visit www.pdf.org.

25

General Information

Free PDF Publications

News Review WINTER 2011

Parkinson's Clinical Research: Changing the Way Business is Done

By Robin Elliott

collaborate

training

advocates

therapies

participate

So, what is our solution? At PDF, In 2004, the Parkinson’s Disease we believe that we can no longer afford Foundation (PDF) launched Advancing to see people with Parkinson’s disease Parkinson’s Therapies (APT), an initiaas simply vehicles through which to test tive designed to help accelerate the denew medicines. Rather, we should see velopment of new therapies for people people with PD as primary partners in who live with Parkinson’s disease (PD). the processes of therapy deAs we reported exvelopment, trial design and actly five years ago in implementation and peer this newsletter, a prieducation. Our panel’s remary obstacle to therapy sponses tell us that we are development — and one coming closer on which we thought we delays to this ideal, could have the greatest and this news impact — was the low comes at an auspicious time. participation in recruitment awareness education PDF’s third Clinical Research clinical trials Learning Institute in Ocamong people with PD. tober graduated 40 people So, when we recently interwith Parkinson’s newlyviewed various colleagues who educated in the theory and practice of are involved in the therapy developclinical studies. This brings to more ment process to hear their perspectives than 100 the number of members of (as reported later in this article), we what we will now be calling the were not surprised to hear each one of Parkinson’s Advocates in Research them identify clinical trial recruitment (PAIR) program of PDF. as an ongoing barrier to therapy develAs these trained advocates partner opment. But we were interested to with government, scientists and indushear them identify additional roadtry, we hope to increase knowledge, blocks of an institutional nature, and trust and transparency among the PD speak of collaboration and inclusion of community. Look for more details in people with PD as potential solutions. the Spring 2011 newsletter. And join This is because over time our own with us in changing the way business thinking has also evolved. We have is done — a new way that ensures a come to realize that while low recruitplace for people with Parkinson’s, ment is an important barrier to address from all walks of life, at the center of to find new therapies, it is also sympthe clinical research process. Mr. Eltomatic of more complex issues that liott is PDF’s Executive Director. require our attention.

pd

people

community

efficiency

>> Read more on page 4

NEWS IN BRIEF Alzheimer’s Drug Reduces Falls in People with Parkinson’s

A new study of the use of donepezil (Aricept®) in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) who have problems with balance shows that the drug reduced the number of falls experienced by one-half.

The study, which appears in the October 2010 issue of Neurology, also suggests that the drug, widely used for the cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, may ease cognitive symptoms in PD. Among the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s, balance and gait difficulties are among the most common, with as many as two-thirds of people with PD suffering a fall each year. But they are also among the most difficult to treat.

Donepezil works by boosting the level of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is depleted in the Parkinson’s brain.

Because earlier studies have linked low brain levels of acetylcholine to falls, the author of the new study, Kathryn A. Chung, M.D., of the Oregon Health & Science University, reasoned that donepezil might improve balance and reduce falls in people with PD. The problem is that the drug has also been shown to increase PD tremors. >> Read more on page 2

IN THIS ISSUE Research Funding Opportunities Get Ready for Awareness Month Legal Issues & PD An Inspirational Online Journey

2 3 6 9

Report on the 2nd WPC

10

Apply to PDF’s Advisory Council

11

PDF Receives Highest Ranking from Charity Navigator! >> Read more at www.pdf.org

Parkinson’s Disease Resource List

Parkinson’s Disease Q &A

This publication highlights over 750 resources throughout the US and around the world that address many needs of a person living with Parkinson’s. It also includes specific resources for early-onset PD, the newly diagnosed, care partners and more.

114 pages.

This booklet answers the most frequently-asked questions about Parkinson’s disease symptoms, treatments, common problems and research.

64 pages. Available in Spanish.

The PDF Newsletter: News & Review

Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson’s Disease: Third Edition

This quarterly publication includes updates on scientific research, treatments, and therapies, insight and practical suggestions on Parkinson’s from physicians and other health professionals, advice and inspirational stories and news from the Parkinson’s community.

12 pages.

Diagnosis Parkinson’s Disease: You Are Not Alone Designed for the newly diagnosed, this booklet and companion DVD/video addresses questions that may arise upon diagnosis. Honored by the Communicator Awards with an Award of Distinction, the booklet shares resources, medical expert testimony, and the experiences of those with Parkinson’s disease.

30 pages.

26

This booklet discusses deep brain stimulation (DBS), the most common surgery performed to treat Parkinson’s. It reviews the history of DBS, the procedures, and advises both how to prepare for surgery and how to maintain health post-surgery. It also answers frequently-asked questions. 40 pages.

Facts About Parkinson's Disease This tri-fold brochure explains the basic facts of Parkinson's, ranging from statistics and diagnosis to symptoms and treatments. It also includes information on PDF's HelpLine and tips for staying informed with online and print resources.

To order copies of these FREE publications, visit www.pdf.org/publications or call (800) 457-6676.

This report summarizes the proceedings and findings of a 2007 roundtable discussion that explored barriers to clinical research: specifically how the Parkinson’s community can improve patient trust in the process. Participants included people with Parkinson’s, researchers, industry representatives and members of the government. 40 pages.

This tri-fold brochure provides an overview of PDF’s mission and is ideal for those who are just learning about PDF, who would like to provide information to patients or support groups, or who are fundraising for PDF and would like information for supporters.

The PDF Story 19572007: Fifty Years of Leadership and Commitment to the Parkinson’s Disease Community This report tells the story of PDF’s founding and history and provides updates on our three programmatic areas: research, education and advocacy. It also includes financial information and a listing of PDF’s generous supporters.

50 pages.

This publication can help one to stay educated and informed about clinical study participation.

PDF Annual Report 2009 Our most recent annual report includes highlights from PDF funded investigators and PDF’s education and advocacy efforts.

This report also thanks our generous supporters for their dedication to Parkinson’s research, education and advocacy.

32 pages.

About PDF

Fulfilling the Hope: Our Commitment to the Parkinson’s Community

Getting Involved in Parkinson’s Research

Clinical Research

Building Patient Trust

Creativity and Parkinson's Calendar This 12-month calendar features the works and personal statements of thirteen artists living with Parkinson’s disease, chosen from over 240 artists whose works are displayed in PDF’s Creativity and Parkinson’s Project.

To order copies of these FREE publications, visit www.pdf.org/publications or call (800) 457-6676.

27

Parkinson's Fact Sheets

PDF fact sheets are recommended for those looking for in-depth information about a specific area of Parkinson’s treatment and care. *Available in Spanish.

Treating Parkinson's

• Nutrition and PD* • Should You Consider Deep Brain Stimulation?* • Speech Therapy in PD* • Physical Therapy in PD* Living with Parkinson's

• Driving and Parkinson's Disease — When is it time to give up the keys?* Understanding Parkinson's

• Making a Move with Parkinson's*

General Information

• PD Advocacy: The Difference it Makes*

• Choosing the Right Doctor*

• Starting a Support Group

• Genetics and Parkinson's Disease: What Have We Learned?

• Traveling with PD*

• Parkinson's FAQ*

Employment, Insurance, Financial Assistance and Legal Matters

• Understanding Parkinson’s Plus Syndromes and Atypical Parkinsonism Nonmotor Symptoms

• Employment with PD: Working it Out* • Parkinson's Disease: Principles for Health Care Reform

• Combating Depression in Parkinson's • Dental Health and Parkinson's Disease

Caring in Parkinson's

• Falls Prevention

• Caring for the Care Partner

• Gambling, Sex, and ... Parkinson's Disease?*

• Coping with Dementia: Advice for Caregivers*

• Gastrointestinal and Urinary Dysfunction*

• Helping Your Children Cope with Your PD*

• Cognitive Changes in PD*

• The PD Partnership*

• Pain in Parkinson's Disease* • PD: More than a Movement Disorder*

Managing Advanced Parkinson's

• Planning for End of Life: The Role of Hospice in Parkinson's Disease Care

To order copies of these FREE publications, visit www.pdf.org/publications or call (800) 457-6676.

Health care professionals and support group leaders are encouraged to order multiple copies.

28

Sunday

Pam Michel

14

21

28

Friday Know the Facts about PD www.pdf.org

Start a Dress Casual Day at work to raise funds for PDF www.pdf.org

Questions about PD?

(800) 457-6676

Adrian van Vliet

Saturday

NYC Central Park at 10 AM

Join the PDF Pacers at the 17th Annual UnityWalk,

PARKINSON’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

http://support. pdf.org/ecards

by sending an eCard

Awareness

1 Raise

8

15

22

Contact Your Public Official

and encourage more funding for PD research

Story

29 Share Your

www.pdf.org/ personal_stories

30

23

16

9

2

Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Myths of PD www.pdf.org/ parkinson_ awareness

7

Thursday

give it to 5 friends and ask them to support PDF!

Calendar,

6 Print this

Wednesday

Spring!

5 Celebrate

to stay up to date on PD facts

Order PDF Publications

Post this calendar to your blog, Facebook, Twitter or other website.

Tuesday

APRIL 2011 Monday

4

Display the Parkinson’s Quilt

3

Purchase an Awareness Month T-Shirt www.pdf.org/quilt

20

13 Shatter the

A night of dancing and cocktails in NYC to support PDF’s research programs

12 Write a Letter

www.pdf.org/ brochures

PD Pipeline?

11 Whats In The

www.pdf.org/ shop_support_ pdf

10 James Parkinson’s Birthday

Live Online Seminar at 1 PM ET www.pdf.org/ parkinsononline

19

Submit your Artwork ww.pdf.org/ creativity

www.pdf.org/ facebook

of PDF on Facebook

a Fan

27 Become

to raise $50,000 in April, and your gift will be matched http:// support.pdf.org

Join our Challenge

to the editor of your paper about living with PD

Read PDF’s Blog

1755 -1824 (First described PD in 1817)

www.pdf.org/blog

PDF Champion Jennifer Iaccariro

17 Become a PDF Champion

18

by hosting your own fundraiser

John Wherry

26 www.pdf.org/ shop_support_pdf

Support PDF

25 Shop to www.PDtrials.org

in a PD clinical trial

24 Participate

www.pdf.org/pdf_ champion

Beverly Lavender

Order our PD Awareness Month Toolkit at (800) 457-6676 or www.pdf.org/parkinson_awareness.

To view or rent the quilt please visit www.pdf.org/quilt.

The artwork and quilts in this calendar were created by people with PD. To learn more, visit www.pdf.org/community.

29

30

Sunday

12

11

18

25

10

17

24

27

20

13

28

21

29

22

15

14

1

8

Friday

7

Thursday

Saturday

30

23

16

9

2

Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Order our PD Awareness Month Toolkit at (800) 457-6676 or www.pdf.org/parkinson_awareness.

To view or rent the quilt please visit www.pdf.org/quilt.

26

19

5

4

6

Wednesday

Post this calendar to your blog, Facebook, Twitter or other website.

Tuesday

3

Monday

APRIL 2011

The Parkinson’s Tulip You may have noticed that the tulip is the official symbol within the Parkinson’s community. The tulip was first recognized as a symbol for Parkinson’s in 1980. At that time, a Dutch horticulturalist named J.W.S. Van der Wereld decided to honor Dr. James Parkinson, the first person to describe Parkinson’s in 1817, by naming a tulip after him. It thus became a symbol for Parkinson’s disease.

The tulip used throughout this toolkit, was designed by Karen Painter, a person living with Parkinson’s. This tulip is a red flower with distinctive leaves shaped like the letters “P” and “D”.

Ms. Painter shared the story of how and why she created this tulip. She said, “After staring at a pink breast cancer ribbon in a store window, it dawned on me that people with Parkinson’s also need a nationally recognized symbol for awareness.”

PDF thanks Ms. Painter for sharing this tulip freely with the community to raise awareness of Parkinson’s. (See www.pdplan4life.com for more information on this tulip design).

Other groups, such as PDF, also use tulips in its materials. PDF uses a yellow tulip to denote optimism and hope. The three petals are used to denote its three-pronged mission: Hope through research, education and advocacy.

© 2011 Parkinson’s Disease Foundation

(800) 457-6676 | info@pdf.org | www.pdf.org