April Is Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Turning Awareness into Action
April is National Parkinson’s Awareness Month and a time to raise awareness, spark meaningful conversations, and show support for the Parkinson’s community. With the National Day of Action on April 7 and World Parkinson’s Day on April 11, this month highlights the importance of coming together to educate, advocate, and uplift those impacted by Parkinson’s disease. This year, we are proud to share that PAC worked with the Governor’s Office in North Carolina and South Carolina to secure official proclamations recognizing Parkinson’s Awareness Month, helping elevate awareness across both states.
At the Parkinson’s Association of the Carolinas (PAC), awareness is part of our mission every day as we work to ensure no one faces Parkinson’s alone. We provide cost-free programs, education, and support to help individuals living with Parkinson’s and their families navigate every stage of the journey with confidence and connection.
This April, we invite you to take action by joining our Moving with the PAC Challenge to stay active, build community and support your well-being, and be a part of the 2026 MoveIt! Walk Charlotte on April 25—a fundraising event that brings together individuals, families, care partners, and supporters from across the Carolinas. You can also participate in PAC programs, from exercise and movement therapy classes to educational workshops and support groups, all designed to help you live well with Parkinson’s.
Whether you attend a program, invite a friend to join you, or help spread awareness in your community, your involvement makes a difference. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and strengthen support for those affected by Parkinson’s.
Thank You to our Newsletter Sponsor
New Parkinson’s-Focused Programs at The Ivey
One impactful day, two meaningful wins! At PAC’s Care Partner Summit, caregivers connected and learned strategies to support themselves and their loved ones living with Parkinson’s. Meanwhile, at The Ivey, loved ones sampled our new Parkinson’s Power programming (beginning April 13th), created to build strength, safety, confidence, and connection. These events reaffirm our commitment to empowering caregivers with 4-hour blocks of dedicated time to reset, and ensuring loved ones gather, grow, and thrive together. Click here to learn more about our Parkinson’s Power program.
Tools for Your Journey: Education & Support Programs
We invite you to join us for PAC’s April programs designed to support, educate, and connect our community. As a reminder, all Wednesday Webinars, Virtual Support Group, Wellness Wednesday, and Educational Webinars, will take place at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. The YOPD Support Group will take place at 1:00 PM Eastern Time.
Virtual Support Group: Update in Parkinson’s Disease Management
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Online via Zoom
This month’s Virtual Support Group explores the latest updates in Parkinson’s care and management. Dr. Danielle Englert, MDS and DBS Program Director at the Atrium Health Neuroscience Institute in Charlotte, NC, will share the newest insights and strategies in Parkinson’s management. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about treatment advancements, ask questions, and connect with others navigating life with Parkinson’s. This session is designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s, care partners, and family members seeking guidance and support.
Wednesday Webinar | Journey Ambassador Program: Understanding Parkinson's Related Hallucinations and Delusions
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Online via Zoom
This month’s Wednesday Webinar takes a closer look at Parkinson’s disease–related hallucinations and delusions—symptoms that can be challenging for both individuals and care partners. If you or your loved one is experiencing these changes, there may be steps you can take. Join this free Journey Program Ambassador webinar to learn about the symptoms, why they occur, and an FDA-approved treatment option. Hear from Parkinson’s specialist Dr. Fiona Gupta and Kim, a care partner, as they share expert insights and real-life experiences to help you better understand and navigate these symptoms.
This webinar is sponsored by Acadia Pharmaceuticals.
Wellness Wednesday: Home Modification for Safety and Accessibility
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Online via Zoom
This month’s Wellness Wednesday explores how home accessibility can support safety, independence, and quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson’s. Join the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas to learn how simple modifications can reduce the risk of falls, injury, and hospital re-admissions. Caryn Fidalgo, OTD, OTR/L, will share practical strategies to help create a safer, more accessible home environment, empowering you or your loved one to age in place with confidence.
Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) Support Group
Thursday, April 16, 2026 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Hybrid: PAC Office (2101 Sardis Road North, Suite 102, Charlotte, NC) OR Online via Zoom
The Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) Support Group explores connection, shared understanding, and practical support for individuals living with YOPD. Designed to address the unique challenges of navigating Parkinson’s at a younger age — including career, family, and long-term planning considerations — this welcoming space offers meaningful conversation, encouragement, and the reminder that you don’t have to face this journey alone.
Did you miss one of PAC’s virtual programs? You can catch up anytime by visiting the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas YouTube Channel, where selected recordings are available to watch. Be sure to subscribe so you’ll be notified when new content is posted!
Need help registering for a program? Call us at (980) 245-2786 or toll-free at (866) 903-PARK (7275). Our team will be happy to assist you.
Find a Support Group
Living with Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. PAC maintains a listing of support groups across the Carolinas for individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners. These groups provide a safe and welcoming space to share experiences, learn from others, and build meaningful connections within the community. Our new Young Onset PD support group that will meet monthly in a hybrid format, both in-person in Charlotte and online via Zoom! To learn more about a support group near you, call us at (980) 245-2786 or email gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org.
Free Resource Hotline
Need answers or support? PAC’s Free Resource Line is here to help. Staffed by a PAC team member Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M.–4:00 P.M., this service provides reliable information, local resources, referrals, and details about our cost-free programs.
Give us a call at (866) 903-PARK (7275) or email pac@parkinsonassociation.org to connect with the support you need.
Get Moving with PAC: Movement Therapy Programs
Exercise and movement are powerful tools for living well with Parkinson’s. Regular participation can improve balance, flexibility, strength, and overall quality of life. PAC is proud to sponsor a variety of exercise and movement therapy classes each month, designed to meet you where you are and keep you moving forward. To join in, please contact the individual instructors listed below for class details and registration.
You can also explore the full list of PAC-sponsored exercise classes on our website.
Looking for even more options? Additional exercise programs are available throughout the Carolinas. Find classes in North Carolina, South Carolina, and online or call (980) 245-2786 or email gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org to learn more.
This month’s updates: Dance for Parkinson’s with Jennifer will meet weekly on Mondays at 11:00 AM, except for April 6. The Yoga for PD with Aminta class scheduled for Monday, April 6 at 2:00 PM is cancelled due to Unity Presbyterian Church being closed.
Disclaimer: We ask that you practice caution when participating in all programs, particularly exercise programs. Talk to your doctor about what program would be best for you, stay hydrated, exercise in a safe environment, move at your own pace, and try to exercise with a partner or an accredited instructor.
It’s officially spring! That means warmer days, fresh air, and the perfect time to get moving!
PAC’s #MovingwiththePAC Challenge is all about building healthy movement habits that support people living with Parkinson’s and doing it together as a community.
Regular movement isn’t just helpful. It’s powerful. Research shows that consistent exercise can help improve balance, mobility, flexibility, and even mood for those living with Parkinson’s disease. Staying active may also help slow the progression of symptoms and support overall brain health.
In fact, just 2.5 hours of exercise each week—about 30 minutes a day, five days a week—has been shown to improve quality of life for people with Parkinson’s. That’s time well spent investing in strength, independence, and well-being.
Movement can look different for everyone. Your challenge can include:
- Walking & Cardio – outdoor walks, treadmill, indoor walking, seated marching
- Balance & Stability – heel-to-toe walking, weight shifting, Tai Chi
- Strength & Resistance – sit-to-stands, resistance bands, light weights
- Stretching & Flexibility – yoga, gentle stretching, neck & shoulder stretches
- Mind-Body Movement – meditation, breathing exercises, mindfulness
- Everyday Movement – gardening, chores, moving during TV breaks
Set a goal that works for you and track your progress along the way. Plus, we’ve created a movement tracker to help you stay motivated and see the impact of every exercise.
Click here to download your PAC movement tracker today!
Make an Impact: Partnering with PAC
Turn Awareness Into Action This April: Join a MoveIt! Walk
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time to come together, share stories, and shine a light on the realities of living with Parkinson’s disease. It’s a month rooted in education and advocacy, but also in action.
The Parkinson Association of the Carolinas (PAC) is proud to host the 2026 MoveIt! Walk Charlotte and the 2026 MoveIt! Walk Wilmington. Our Walk fundraisers bring together individuals, families, care partners, and supporters from across the region, all united by a shared commitment to support those living with Parkinson’s
Why It Matters
Raising awareness is essential, but pairing it with action creates lasting change. By participating in a MoveIt! Walk, you are helping to:
- Increase visibility and understanding of Parkinson’s disease
- Fund critical programs and services for those impacted
- Build a strong, connected community of support
Every dollar raised and every step taken helps PAC continue to provide vital resources like support groups, educational programs, and wellness initiatives for individuals and families navigating Parkinson’s. This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, let’s go beyond awareness. Let’s take action together. Questions? Contact Charlie Godfrey at (980) 245-2786 or cgodfrey@parkinsonassociation.org.
2026 MoveIt! Walk Charlotte
Saturday, April 25, 2026 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM Symphony Park
4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte
Walkers & teams have the opportunity to win a prize for these awards while helping us reach our $70,000 goal.
- Top fundraising individual: Dinner for two gift card at local restaurant
- Top fundraising team: Dominos gift card team can use for pizza party
- Team with most team members registered by April 3rd: PAC water bottle for each team member
Award winners will be announced and recognized at the Walk!
MoveIt! Walk T-shirts or PAC Tumblers are available while supplies last
2026 Sponsors
2026 MoveIt! Walk Wilmington
Saturday, May 16, 2026 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Long Leaf Park
314 Pine Grove Drive, Wilmington
Whether you make a quick donation, ask a friend to give, or share your page, you’re helping us move closer to our $45,000 goal.
Every dollar raised helps people living with Parkinson’s access the programs and community they need.
New this year: Fundraising Incentives
- Participants who donate or fundraise $25 or more by April 16th earn a walk t-shirt.
- Participants who donate or fundraise $150 or more by April 16th to earn a PAC tumbler
After April 16, items will be available while supplies last
2026 Sponsors
PAC's Mission in Motion
Care Partner Summit 2026: A Day of Support, Learning, and Connection
On March 21, care partners from across our community came together for a meaningful day of self-care, learning, and connection at our 2026 Care Partner Summit.
The day offered a powerful opportunity for care partners to step away from their daily responsibilities and focus on their own well-being while gaining practical tools to support their loved ones. Attendees heard from Carolyn Dowdy, who shared valuable guidance on preventing caregiver burnout and prioritizing personal wellness. Mattie Ablitz brought both insight and humor to the day, offering real-life strategies that resonated deeply and reminded participants they are not alone on this journey.
The impact of the summit was best captured by one attendee who shared, “Saturday’s event was perfect, couldn’t have asked for more.” Moments like these reinforce the importance of creating spaces where care partners feel seen, supported, and empowered.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and exhibitors who helped make this special day possible: Acadia Pharmaceuticals, The Ivey, Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Briar Creek at the Barclay, and Stillwater Massage and Bodywork.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to uplift and support care partners in our community. Together, we are building a stronger network of care, compassion, and connection.
PAC Expands Outreach and Education in the Community
PAC continued its mission to provide education and community outreach in March by visiting Parkinson’s support groups, and providing PD101 to raise awareness in the community about Parkinson’s disease.
On March 3, Gillian presented Beyond the Diagnosis: Living Fully with Parkinson’s at the First Presbyterian Church of Belmont Community Lunch ’n Learn. She shared this impactful presentation again on March 26 as a webinar for the AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness and Opportunity Center in Asheville, extending PAC’s reach to even more community members.
Gillian also spent time connecting with local Parkinson’s support groups, including visits to Ascension Lutheran Church in Charlotte and Sally’s Rock Steady Boxing class in Denver. During these visits, she shared information about PAC’s programs and services, while offering meaningful ways for individuals to get involved and stay connected.
These outreach efforts are a vital part of PAC’s commitment to meeting people where they are and ensuring no one faces Parkinson’s alone.
If you’re interested in having PAC present to your group or organization, we’d love to connect. Please reach out to Gillian at gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org or (980) 245-2786.
Beyond the Carolinas: Community Education Corner
In addition to PAC’s local offerings, we’re pleased to highlight educational webinars and resources from respected regional and national organizations. These free virtual sessions and events provide valuable insights into living well with Parkinson’s and often cover topics relevant to overall wellness, caregiving, and brain health.
Make Your Voice Heard: Parkinson’s National Day of Action – April 7, 2026
Every year, Parkinson’s disease impacts more families across the United States, with over 1.2 million Americans living with Parkinson’s and related disorders. The Parkinson’s National Day of Action on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, is your opportunity to raise awareness, advocate for meaningful change, and make your voice heard. It only takes a few minutes to make a difference.
At the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas (PAC), we are proud to join thousands of advocates nationwide to urge elected officials to prioritize policies that accelerate Parkinson’s research, protect brain health, and improve the lives of those affected. You can help by advocating for increased federal funding for research, addressing environmental risk factors, ensuring the National Parkinson’s Project is fully implemented, and supporting state-level actions that make a real difference in our communities.
Advocacy doesn’t have to be complicated. You can participate right from your home or office by sending an email or letter to your legislators, calling your Senators or Representatives at (202) 224-3121, or sharing your story on social media using #Act4PD. Every message, call, and story matters.
Read our blog post to learn more about how you can get involved and make an impact this National Day of Action.
Free Webinar: Sleep and Parkinson's: What Causes Parkinson's Disease?
📅 Thursday, April 16, 2025
🕑 12:00 PM | Online
This webinar explores the current understanding of what causes Parkinson’s disease, examining genetics, environmental factors, and aging, and highlights ongoing research aimed at developing treatments to slow, stop, or one day prevent the disease.
Hosted by The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
Senior Lifestyle, Health & Home Expo
📅 Wednesday, April 1, 2026
🕑 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM | Nir Family YMCA, 2710 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28403
The Senior Lifestyle, Health & Home Expo is a free event for seniors. There is free parking. There will be food, prizes, and giveaways. There will be free onsite colon cancer screenings provided by Guardant Health as well as various other health screenings, free onsite immunizations, food, prizes, and giveaways.
MUSC Senior Expo 2026
📅 Wednesday, April 1, 2026
🕑 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM | Charleston Area Convention Center, 5001 Coliseum Dr, North Charleston, SC 29418
The MUSC Center for Healthy Aging Senior Expo is the perfect opportunity for Seniors and their Caregivers to navigate the complex world of Senior Care in Charleston and for your organization to share the benefits of your products and services with hundreds of seniors.
Parkinson's Community News
Staying informed is key to living well with Parkinson’s. Explore the latest research breakthroughs, innovative therapies, helpful resources, and news that support every step of your Parkinson’s journey. You’ll also find opportunities to get involved in studies shaping the future of care. Click the headlines below to learn more and stay connected!
Stem Cell Therapy for Parkinson’s Given Limited Approval in Japan
Raguneprocel, a stem cell-based dopamine neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson’s motor symptoms, has received conditional approval in Japan, marking the first approval of its kind. While not yet available in the U.S., this milestone highlights the potential of regenerative therapies to improve Parkinson’s treatment and represents an important step forward in ongoing research. Read More
When caregiver stress hits, I remember to have ‘just a little patience’
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease can test patience in ways you never expect, as caregiver Crystal Onyema shares from her personal journey with her husband, Arman. By slowing down, focusing on small tasks, and allowing space for independence, caregivers can build patience, reduce stress, and bring more calm and connection to everyday moments. Read More
Brain implant detects walking in Parkinson’s patients in real time: Study
A new study from UCSF demonstrates that a fully implanted brain device can detect when people with Parkinson’s disease are walking in their daily lives with more than 95% accuracy. This breakthrough lays the groundwork for more personalized, responsive therapies, including adaptive deep brain stimulation, that could one day improve mobility and quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s. Read More
New MJFF Report Details Advances in Biochemical Biomarker Research
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has updated its Parkinson’s Biochemical Biomarkers Pipeline Report, highlighting the latest advances in measurable indicators that can detect, track, and predict Parkinson’s disease. These biomarkers, including alpha-synuclein, genetic mutations, and indicators of inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, are helping researchers develop more personalized therapies and accelerate clinical trials for better treatments. Read More
US, China regulators OK trials of stem cell therapy in MSA-P
Xellsmart has received regulatory approval in the U.S. and China to begin clinical trials of its experimental stem cell therapy for multiple system atrophy-Parkinsonian type (MSA-P), a rare disorder with Parkinson’s-like motor symptoms. Building on positive early results from Parkinson’s trials, this therapy uses engineered stem cells to replace damaged nerve cells, offering hope for slowing disease progression in conditions that currently have no approved treatments. Read More
Update your PAC Communication Preferences
We’re updating our emails to match your preferences, so you only receive the updates that matter most. Quickly choose the types of emails you want, like the monthly newsletter, programs & events, donor updates, volunteer opportunities, or special communications, to stay informed and avoid messages that aren’t relevant to you. It only takes a few seconds and ensures you never miss important PAC updates.
Stay Connected with PAC Online
How can I engage with PAC on social media?
Follow PAC on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or X (formerly Twitter) for the latest updates on Parkinson’s disease and how PAC supports you. Click Follow or Like so PAC’s posts appear in your newsfeed. When you see a post, let us know you enjoyed it by tapping the thumbs-up (Facebook) or heart (Instagram) icons.
In addition to regular posts, PAC also shares Stories on Facebook and Instagram. These appear at the top of your feed. Look for PAC’s tulip icon, tap to view the story, and click the heart to show your support. You can also send us a message to share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you!
