Community for the Journey -- April 2026 | | |
If you would like to facilitate a group in your area, PANC will help.
Contact Jen Westoby here if interested.
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Give Hope. Fund Strength.
Change Parkinson’s in NorCal Today
THE BIG DAY OF GIVING IS
ALMOST HERE
Click here to learn more and donate
between April 20 and May 7
Double your giving! The Hart Foundation will match donations up to $20,000
Donating to the Parkinson Association of Northern California on the Big Day of Giving is a powerful way to directly impact the lives of individuals and families facing Parkinson’s disease, because your support funds our critical local programs that provide education, support groups, respite assistance, and one-on-one guidance that help people maintain independence and quality of life.
Unlike larger national organizations, your gift stays in the community, ensuring that those navigating Parkinson’s right now have immediate access to resources, connection, and hope, while also helping to reduce isolation, empower caregivers, and expand outreach so no one has to face this disease alone—making every dollar a meaningful investment in dignity, resilience, and a stronger, more supported Parkinson’s community.
Please share with others and help us reach our goal of $75,000 in 2026. Reminder to donate here starting April 20th to make an impact! Every dollar counts. THANK YOU!!!
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Sailing4Parkinsons
Was an Absolute Success!
According to Latitude38 Magazine, the Bay area's premier sailing publication, the first annual Sailing4Parkinsons fundraising regatta that benefitted PANC and the Michael J. Fox Foundation was flawless, unless you count a little gray weather, wind, and rain. But if that was a flaw, you wouldn't have known it from the reaction of the hundreds of happy racers and supporters who turned out for the Saturday tall sailing ship carrying people with Parkinson's disease and their care partners, the Saturday night gala fundraiser, and the Sunday pursuit sail race. (Read the full Latitude38 Article here.)
Saturday's tall ship sailing experience hosted 48 individuals, many with Parkinson's disease, who were supported by volunteers and a friendly crew who made the experience memorable. Kit Mariah said, "It felt so safe to be with people who are aware, helpful and comfortable that I could enjoy an activity that I would normally avoid because I find crowds unsafe and I'm even afraid of people who see me different or dramatically changed from an earlier appearance and personality. Everyone was so helpful. Thank you so much for this opportunity!"
The first-ever Gala sold-out and hosted an electric audience, dynamic speakers, stellar silent auction items, live music, and more. The stormy race day brought even more excitement to the weekend with its puffy wind gusts and passing downpours. That didn't stop the determined skippers with almost 49 boats registered. Sun eventually welcomed the racers back to the dock along with a warm reception and a toast to the race and fundraising victors. It was truly a bountiful weekend celebrating resilience and heroism of both sailors and the Parkinson's community alike.
A heartfelt thank you to Amy Bridge, who spent three years developing this event, and her dedicated team of volunteers who worked diligently to spread awareness of Parkinson's disease and the many needs throughout the Bay area and the sailing world. Future sailing with Parkinson's programs, a sailing and Parkinson's research project, and more are in the works. Stay tuned for much more excitement on the sailing front to come!
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Walk to Cancel Out Parkinson's Coming Up!
Saturday, April 25 from 9 to 11:45 am
Maidu Park, Roseville
Information and Registration Here
It's not too late! Join in the Spring fun and register today! Visit the 20+ vendor tables!
Thank you to joint Lions Clubs and the following sponsors for making the day possible:
AbbVie
Acadia Pharmaceuticals
Embarcadero Lions Club
Supernus Pharmaceuticals
Boston Scientific
Higgins Diggins Lions Club
Auburn 49'ers Lions Club
McIlwain Mobility Solutions
Medtronic
Weintraub Tobin
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Good News About the
Future of Parkinson's
Research in Parkinson’s disease accelerated significantly in 2025 and early 2026, marking one of the most promising periods in decades. A major milestone was the FDA approval of adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS), a next-generation technology that can sense brain activity and adjust stimulation in real time. Unlike traditional DBS, this “closed-loop” system personalizes treatment moment by moment, improving symptom control while reducing side effects—an important step toward more intelligent, individualized care.
At the same time, the drug development pipeline is advancing rapidly, with several therapies entering late-stage clinical trials. A new once-daily medication, tavapadon, is under FDA review and represents the first novel dopamine-targeting approach in decades. In parallel, bemdaneprocel—a stem cell therapy designed to replace lost dopamine-producing neurons—has progressed into advanced trials, signaling a shift toward regenerative treatment strategies. These efforts are complemented by large-scale global clinical trials launched in 2025 aimed at slowing or even stopping disease progression, reflecting a growing focus on disease-modifying therapies rather than symptom management alone.
Breakthrough discoveries in basic science are also reshaping how Parkinson’s is understood. Researchers identified a specific brain network that may drive the disease, opening the door to more targeted and effective treatments. Other studies are challenging long-held assumptions about dopamine’s role in movement, suggesting it functions more as a background enabler than a direct controller—insights that could fundamentally change how therapies are designed. At the same time, new drugs aimed at protecting brain cells and reducing inflammation are showing early promise in clinical trials, offering hope for slowing progression.
Across the field, increased funding and global collaboration are driving innovation at an unprecedented pace. While no cure exists yet, the breakthroughs of 2025–2026 signal a clear shift—from simply managing Parkinson’s symptoms to actively pursuing ways to slow, stop, and ultimately reverse the disease.
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Parkinson's Advocates Welcomed at CA Capital
On Monday, April 13, 50 Parkinson's disease advocates from across California, including PANC constituents, joined MJFF, the Parkinson's Foundation, and the American Parkinson's Disease Association to meet with California legislators advocating for increased investment in Parkinson's research, reducing preventable risk, expanding care, and improving preparedness to better support Californians living with Parkinson’s disease, their families and our communities.
The legislative priorities discussed included:
Advancing Research & Innovation (SB 895)
- Supports sustained investment in Parkinson’s research in California
- Accelerates development of new treatments, better care strategies and potential cures
- Strengthens collaboration across academic institutions, health care systems and industry
Reducing Risk Through Education (Paraquat Awareness)
- Advances education about environmental risk factors linked to Parkinson’s
- Supports prevention efforts, especially in agricultural communities
Improving Access to Care at Home (AB 2081)
- Expands access to Medi-Cal HCBA waivers for in-home care
- Reduces waitlists for critical services
Preparing for Emergencies (SB 837)
- Requires disability-specific emergency preparedness training through ADRCs
On Thursday, April 16, SB 895 passed the Senate Natural Resources committee on a 5-2 vote. You can watch the bill hearing here. The bill now moves into Senate Appropriations.
PANC will continue to follow and advocate for the issues that are in the best interests of our community. Please let us know if you are interested in becoming involved in this important work. We have a long way to go and many voices are needed.
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Twirl, Step, Smile: The Joy of Tango for Parkinson’s
A recent New York Times article highlighted that tango for Parkinson’s disease is a growing movement that uses adapted Argentine Tango as a form of therapy to help improve mobility, balance, and overall quality of life.
Originally developed through programs like Dance for PD, tango-based classes are specifically tailored for people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. The structured steps, rhythmic patterns, and partner connection in tango directly address common Parkinson’s symptoms such as freezing, shuffling gait, and balance challenges. Because the dance emphasizes starting, stopping, and changing direction, it helps retrain the brain and body in ways that traditional exercise sometimes cannot.
Research has shown that tango can lead to measurable improvements in balance, walking speed, coordination, and confidence. It also provides cognitive benefits by requiring focus, memory, and responsiveness to a partner. Just as important, it creates a social and uplifting environment—reducing isolation and supporting emotional well-being for both participants and caregivers.
Today, tango classes for Parkinson’s are offered in many communities, often through nonprofits, and dance studios. Whether you are newly diagnosed or further along in the disease, adapted tango offers a safe, enjoyable, and evidence-based way to stay active and connected.
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Schedule of Upcoming Events
April 25 -- Cancel Out Parkinson's (COP) Walk in Roseville
May 7 -- Big Day of Giving
May 9 -- Support Group Facilitator's workshop
May 24 to 27 -- World Parkinson's Congress in Phoenix
September 21-23 -- Take A Shot at Parkinson's Sacramento
October 24 -- PANC Annual Conference at Cal Expo in Sacramento
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Equipment Exchange Products
PANC's Equipment Exchange has the following available:
If you have equipment to share that can help others, the Durable Medical Equipment Exchange is ready to go. Click here to post an item and here to see what's available. We want to see this benefit grow to help our Parkinson's community members through the various phases of their disease care.
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First-Ever Federal Advisory Council on Parkinson's Research, Care, and Services Appointed
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research recently announced that its Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Deborah W. Brooks, and MJFF Patient Council member Israel Robledo have been appointed to the inaugural Federal Advisory Council on Parkinson's Research, Care and Services.
The newly established advisory body will guide the development and implementation of the National Parkinson's Project (NPP), a comprehensive national strategy to end Parkinson's disease and atypical parkinsonisms. In addition to representatives from federal agencies like the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Council includes 10 independent and private sector appointees, including patients, care partners, health care providers, researchers and nonprofit leaders.
Authorized by Congress with near-unanimous bipartisan support and signed into law in 2024 with the help from PANC constituents and others, the NPP is being developed and implemented by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It is a whole-of-government initiative that aims to align federal agencies, accelerate scientific progress and improve care, with the ultimate goals of preventing, diagnosing, treating and curing Parkinson's, as well as slowing or stopping its progression.
The NPP Advisory Council will provide recommendations to HHS on research priorities, access to care and services, and strategies to reduce the burden of Parkinson's. It will also monitor progress and report to Congress at regular intervals, helping ensure accountability and sustained momentum.
Parkinson's organizations are urging several immediate priorities for the Council's work:
- Produce an estimate of the investments needed to prevent, diagnose, treat, and ultimately cure Parkinson's as a core deliverable — scaled to meet the growing economic burden of the disease.
- Prioritize improving quality of life for those living with Parkinson's disease and their families across the lifespan, including young-onset and older adults.
- Reset firm, reasonable reporting timelines to make up for lost time and sustain momentum.
There will be ongoing opportunities for the Parkinson's community to provide input that shapes the direction and priorities of the NPP. Stay tuned for additional information and how you can become engaged in this work.
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April Free Webinars
Saturday, April 18 from 10 to 11:30am
Constipation and Gastrointestinal Issues in Parkinson’s with the Brian Grant Foundation
Learn how constipation, nausea, and decreased appetite relate to PD, when you should talk to the doctor and how it is managed.
Info and Register Here
Saturday, April 18 at 1pm
Advocacy in Action: Your Voice in Healthcare, Community, and Policy with the Parkinson Support Center of Northern Nevada
Evidence-based techniques for managing stress, calming your nervous system, and restoring a sense of safety and peace in daily life.
Info and Register Here
Tuesday, April 21 at 10am
PD Research Update: The Trials That Matter NOW with No Silver Bullet 4PD
Research results that show the combined effect of targeted exercise, nutrition, and stress management is significantly more impactful than each element alone and how lifestyle choices can influence the age of onset and the long-term trajectory of the disease.
Info and Register Here
Tuesday, April 21 at 11am
Gait and Parkinson’s with the Northwest Parkinson's Foundation
The challenges that come along with walking and PD including the most common walking impairments that come with PD including shuffling gait, freezing of gait and decreased arm swing. He will then discuss ways to help improve your walking mechanics with exercise.
Info and Register
Wednesday, April 22 at 1pm
Employment and Parkinson’s: Understanding Your Rights and Protections with the American Parkinson Disease Association
Audience: Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD)
Get a practical overview of workplace rights and protections for people with Parkinson’s, plus tips for making informed decisions and advocating for yourself.
Info and Register
Thursday, April 23 from 11am to 12:30pm
The Science of Moving: Why We Move Differently with PD (and How PT Helps) with the Parkinson's Community of Los Angeles
The speaker will help attendees understand their bodies, take an active role in their care, and build sustainable movement strategies that extend far beyond the clinic or insurance limitations. Part one of the "Taking Control: A PT’s Guide to Mastering PD Symptoms" series.
Info and Register
Thursday, April 23 from 11:30am to 1pm
Latest Advances in Parkinson’s Treatments: What Veterans Need to Know with the Parkinson's Foundation
Explore the latest evidence-based treatments available to veterans living with PD, including emerging therapies and clinical trial opportunities. Learn how to access treatments through the VA system and understand which options may be right for you or your loved one.
Info and Register
Monday, April 27 at 12pm
Getting Real® for Advanced Stage Care Partners & Adult Children from PMD Alliance
Audience: Advance Stage Care Partners and Adult Children
Ask questions and share experiences. Conclude with advice, resources, and new community connections to support you.
Info and Register Here
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* Contact Jan Whitney here if you are interested in placing a
sponsor article or research opportunity in this publication
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