Online Parkinson’s resources and internet communication  have raised the quality and quantity of Parkinson’s advocacy to new heights.  The Parkinson's community, either individually or through organized groups, is in contact throughout the world with other pwp or with those who are involved with the disease in some manner.  Connections are made in an instant with much of the focus being on research, clinical trials, treatments, physical and psychological symptoms.   They are also seeking and dispensing information/support about  advocacy, ethical considerations with stem cells, and raising funds for all of the above and more.

 

One of our most potentially successful strategies for the next few years could be to look around, see what the grassroots groups are doing (their primary activities and goals ) that is potentially significant on a large scale; then, pull together and try to achieve these goals.  Specific projects that have the capability of impacting pwp in major ways include:

 

Parkinson’s Action Network Grassroots Advocacy Program

The Pipeline Project

With Parkinson’s Don’t Order the Soup (Take Charge Cure Parkinson’s - traveling art show for fundraising)

Young Onset Parkinson’s Association’s projects

People Living With Parkinson’s Benevolence Program

Monitoring stem cell research and updating legislative progress on a state by state basis on Grassroots Connection's State Research and Legislation Exchange

Northwest Parkinson's Foundation Care Center and Online Caregiver Training

 

These grassroots efforts are among the many that with joint effort and collaboration have the potential to change things for the better – to make a difference.   A bonded community can improve our quality of life.  PWP should try to meet these goals, and set the stage for new ones.

 

 www.grassrootsconnection.com