New Year, Real Momentum: Advocacy, Action, Impact

We hope our PD Avengers members and partners around the world are off to a strong start in 2026. This year brings meaningful opportunities to connect, learn, and take action through international events, global awareness efforts, and continued advocacy to improve life for people affected by Parkinson’s everywhere.

We also recognize that many in our community are living through periods of fear, instability, or uncertainty in their own countries and regions. When safety, rights, or access to care feel fragile, it can add an extra weight to life with Parkinson’s. Your wellbeing matters to us, and we hope you and your loved ones are safe, supported, and surrounded by people who care.

PD Avengers remains committed to standing up for justice, protecting vulnerable communities, and pushing governments and institutions worldwide to turn commitments into real action — including fully implementing national and global strategies to prevent, treat, and ultimately end Parkinson’s. Together, we will keep working with compassion and determination to build a better future for all.

Every voice counts in creating change.

Spark the Night 2026 Media Kit

Parkinson’s disease affects more than 12 million people globally and is expected to double by 2050.

On April 11, 2026, Spark the Night will be a coordinated global effort to light up more than 1,000 buildings, bridges, and landmarks in blue for World Parkinson’s Day.

Visibility drives awareness. Awareness drives change.

We invite you to share this post, add your own experience if you’re comfortable, and use #SparkTheNight to help spark meaningful conversations.

Read below to learn how you can get involved. The Spark the Night media kit is attached for easy sharing and participation.

Media Kit

World Parkinson Congress 2026

The 7th World Parkinson Congress will take place May 24–27, 2026, at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

Several registration categories are already SOLD OUT, including People with Parkinson’s (Parkinson Advocates) and Care Partners/Family Members (Care Advocates). If you are in one of these groups, join the waitlist as soon as possible. More spots are likely to open, and waitlisted individuals will be invited to register as space becomes available.

Because these categories are full, waitlisted attendees must wait for space to open after capacity shifts across registration groups. That means if you qualify under a different category that is still open, you should register now rather than delay — space across the Congress is limited and categories continue to fill.

ADVOCATE: Take Action for Parkinson’s

The National Plan to End Parkinson’s passed Congress with strong bipartisan support, and implementation is now underway. A major milestone has been reached: the National Parkinson’s Project Advisory Council has officially been seated, bringing together leaders — including several PD Avengers — to help guide the plan forward. Invitations to serve on the council were sent January 9 following strong advocacy from the Parkinson’s community, including coordinated outreach to Congress and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Advocacy momentum is also building at the state level.

On February 4, 2026, busloads of people living with Parkinson’s, care partners, and advocates will travel from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg to support Pennsylvania legislation that would make it the first U.S. state to ban paraquat, a pesticide linked to increased Parkinson’s risk.

From federal action to state leadership, the Parkinson’s community continues to prove that our voices drive change — and we’re not slowing down.

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to support those living with Parkinson’s?

Last call to nominate them for the Scott Newman Rock Steady Boxing Impact Award! This award celebrates individuals making a meaningful difference through leadership, innovation, and unwavering dedication.

🕒 Nominations close February 1, 2026 — this is your final chance to submit!

What happens next:

Nominees notified: April 1, 2026
Honouree recognized: April 11, 2026 (World Parkinson’s Day)
Honouree featured in their community and across the RSB website and social media

Don’t miss the opportunity to recognize someone who truly makes an impact. 💙

Submit your Nomination by Feb 1, 2026

SWAG STORE: Get 15% off when you spend $20 or more.

Shrinking is Back on Apple TV!

Paul (Harrison Ford) meets Gerry (Michael J. Fox), a fellow Parkinson’s patient, in the doctor’s office.

Gerry’s blunt “F— Parkinson’s” attitude pushes Paul to stop minimizing his disease and adopt the same defiant outlook. Their shared humor and honesty help Paul face his progression with fresh resolve.

Get your shirt to commemorate the episode from our swag store.

Swag Store

Paraquat and Parkinson’s

on the Rise

Exposure to paraquat, a widely used herbicide, has been linked to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. In Pennsylvania, cases are rising, highlighting the impact on affected communities. Ongoing research and advocacy efforts aim to protect public health and push for stronger regulations.

Read the article!

Parkinson’s, Law, and Leadership: Navigating Capacity, Credibility, and Care

As you may know, Parkinson’s is one of the fastest-growing

neurodegenerative diseases worldwide, and questions of capacity, trust, and responsibility are increasingly showing up in professional life.

LEV Continuing Education presents a practical, case-based webinar for lawyers, directors, HR leaders, and professionals, as well as allies, care partners, and people living with Parkinson’s. This program addresses the ethical, legal, and leadership realities of chronic illness in the workplace.

Live Webinar

📆 February 24, 2026

⏱️ 10:00 AM–1:00 PM ET

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