Administrator's Note



After a long, snowy winter, the first warm days of spring bring a sense of energy, joy and relief that is almost palpable. It feels most appropriate to honor Parkinson’s Awareness Month this April amidst these feelings of hope and renewal, for there is much to celebrate.

Here on the East End, our community grows not only in numbers, but more importantly, in strength, fortitude and friendship. (Just ask the Hampton Bays Rock Steady Boxers who meet for lunch before class each week!) We continue to develop new programming based on feedback from all of you, reflecting the needs of our community. This past year, in collaboration with Stony Brook University-Southampton, we hosted our first care partner symposium, welcoming over thirty care partners to the beautiful campus for a day of education, wellness and reflection. We have welcomed three new RSB assistant coaches to our team, secured funding to support our popular Dance with Parkinson’s workshop developed in collaboration with the Parrish Art Museum, and enjoyed holiday parties, summer BBQs and social gatherings. 

On a national level, advocacy efforts are building momentum. This past month marked the inaugural Parkinson’s Policy Forum in Washington, D.C., organized by the Michael J. Fox Foundation, where advocates from across the country came together to elevate awareness and push for increased research funding and improved access to care. At the same time, ongoing work to identify new treatment approaches continues to offer hope for the future. 

I am continually inspired by this community and grateful for your resilience, dedication, humor and grace. This month – Parkinson's Awareness Month – we honor all of you. 

With gratitude, 

Sarah