Because we're all in this together

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on a condition that affects nearly one million people in the United States alone. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, support those living with Parkinson’s, and push forward the search for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

There are many meaningful ways to get involved this month. You can start by educating yourself and others—sharing facts, stories, and resources helps break down misconceptions and builds understanding. Wearing silver or displaying a Parkinson’s awareness ribbon is a simple way to spark conversations. Supporting organizations that provide services, research funding, and advocacy is another powerful way to make an impact.

You can also take action locally by participating in community events, fundraising efforts, or wellness activities that support those living with Parkinson’s. Even small gestures—checking in on someone with Parkinson’s or offering help to a caregiver—can make a big difference.

Together, we can raise awareness, inspire hope, and stand strong with the Parkinson’s community—not just this month, but every day.

Read on for:

• Jamming for Joy
• April 2: Rise and Dine with Rise Above Parkinsons
• April 4: Parkinson Association of Central Florida's Walk for Parkinson's
• April 11: Lee Health Parkinson's Program Parkinson's 5K & Walk
• April 12: Tampa JCCs & Federation Parkinson's Program Community in Motion
• Notable Bits & Happenings

Jamming for Joy

by Rise Above's co-founder Dawn

This past month, I had the pleasure of attending a virtual Jam for Joy class led by Dr. Robert Cochrane of Yes, And… eXercise! (YAX!).

So, what is Jam for Joy? Their website says it best: “The Jam for Joy is for people with PD, care partners, and the medical/wellness staff who serve our community. It's an hour of improvisational fun, connection, and discovery in a safe/brave space where we show our full selves, have each other’s backs at all times, and know there are no wrong answers. Absolutely no experience is required—come as you are!”

I’ve known about Jam for Joy for quite some time and have had several conversations with Dr. Cochrane about the different ways we each support the PD community. You may even remember seeing it mentioned in this newsletter before.

Recently, I decided it was time to experience it for myself—so I could truly share what it’s like from a participant’s perspective.

Signing up was simple. I’ll admit, I felt a little nervous going in as a “newbie,” not knowing what to expect. But that feeling didn’t last long at all. Within minutes, I was welcomed in and felt completely at ease—like I was among old friends.

The class itself is unlike anything I’ve experienced. It blends mental and physical engagement with laughter, creativity, and a healthy dose of silliness. Honestly, it’s hard to fully capture in words—that’s part of what makes it so special. This word cloud sums it up nicely.

I strongly encourage you to try Jam for Joy. Classes are held regularly on Tuesdays at 1 PM Eastern. There’s no cost to attend, though a suggested $20 donation helps support this wonderful nonprofit.

Visit their website to learn more and sign up—you just might find yourself smiling more than you expected.

APRIL 2:
Rise and Dine with Rise Above Parkinsons!

To kick off Parkinson's awareness month this April, we are partnering with Texas Roadhouse restaurant in Odessa, FL for this special evening of dining for a cause.

If you are in the southwest Pasco county area, come on down and dine with us! Just bring the flyer below to the restaurant and show it to the staff. They will donate a portion of your bill to Rise Above Parkinsons!

Hope to see you there!

APRIL 4:
Walk for Parkinson's
Parkinson Association of Central Florida

👉 Register, join a team, or start your own

👉 Rally your friends, family, and coworkers

Every dollar raised stays in the local Central Florida community, supporting programs like exercise classes, yoga, art, and more for people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners.

Your support brings real resources, connection, and hope to those who need it most.

📍 Cranes Roost Park, Altamonte Springs

📅 Saturday, April 4

What to expect:

• Vendors & exhibitors with valuable information and resources

• KidZone with a balloon artist, face painting, and arts & crafts

• Food trucks and food vendors

Learn more and register here.

APRIL 11:
Parkinson's 5K & Walk

Lee Health Parkinson's Program, Fort Myers

The Lee Health Parkinson Program has served over 4,500 individuals in the Lee County community and currently supports nearly 2,000 people. Their mission is to provide hope and critical resources to help individuals and families navigate the challenges of living with Parkinson’s. Offering, at no cost personalized support, education, movement and exercise classes, enrichment groups, and social activities to help improve quality of life. Until there is a cure, there is a community—one that stands together to ensure no one faces Parkinson’s alone.

Join us for the Parkinson's 5K & Wellness Walk, benefiting the Lee Health Parkinson Program, as we come together to raise awareness and funds for local Parkinson’s support initiatives. This exciting event takes place at Lee Health Sports Park, Hammond Field, right after spring training, making it the perfect way to enjoy a day at the ballpark while supporting a great cause!

Learn more and register here.

APRIL 12:
Community in Motion

Tampa JCCs & Federation Parkinson's Program

Join us for an uplifting afternoon of connection, creativity, and community as we come together in recognition of Parkinson's Awareness Month.

Learn more and register here.

Notable Bits & Happenings

World Parkinson's Day is April 11. Get involved by becoming a Sparklet as we Spark the Night. https://www.worldparkinsonsnight.com/sparklet

World Parkinson's Congress: May 24-27 in Phoenix, Arizona. https://wpc2026.org/

The Rise Above Parkinson's newsletter is published approximately monthly (at the beginning of the month). If you have an event or story you would like us to share, email it to us and we will consider including it in an upcoming issue.

If you know someone who might be interested in this newsletter, share it by forwarding this to them. They can subscribe here.

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