Happy Holidays from PAC
As we enter the holiday season, we are reminded of the power of connection, compassion, and community. For many, this time of year is filled with joy and celebration, but it can also bring unique challenges for those living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners. At the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas (PAC), we are honored to walk alongside individuals and families throughout every season of their Parkinson’s journey.
This year, we are especially grateful to share Lisa’s story. Lisa first came to PAC while supporting her father’s Parkinson’s journey, and later turned to us again when she received her own diagnosis. Through PAC, she found the information, connection, and community she needed. She valued this support so much that she joined our Board of Directors and became a monthly donor. Her story reflects the strength that comes from support and the impact your generosity makes for thousands of families across the Carolinas. Read more about Lisa’s story here.
As you reflect on what matters most this holiday season, we hope you will consider supporting PAC’s end of year giving campaign. Whether you make a one-time gift or join Lisa as a monthly donor, your contribution ensures that individuals and families across the Carolinas never face Parkinson’s alone.
Thank you for being part of this community and for helping us build a future filled with hope, strength, and connection. From all of us at PAC, Happy Holidays.
Tools for Your Journey: Education & Support Programs
Virtual Support Group: Sleep Medicine for Parkinson's
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
12:15 PM – 1:15 PM*
Online via Zoom
*Please note this month’s session will begin at 12:15 PM.
Join us for December’s Virtual Support Group with Dr. Nicholas Fleming, Movement Disorder Specialist at Atrium Health, to learn about common sleep disorders in Parkinson’s disease, including REM behavioral disorder, insomnia, and Restless Leg Syndrome. This free, interactive Zoom session is open to anyone in our community, including people with Parkinson’s, care partners, family, and friends, to gain practical tips, ask questions, and connect with others navigating the Parkinson’s journey.
Wednesday Webinar: Understanding Parkinson's-Related Hallucinations and Delusions
Wednesday, December 10, 2025 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Online via Zoom
Join PAC for our final 2025 educational event, sponsored by Acadia Pharmaceuticals, to learn about Parkinson’s disease-related hallucinations and delusions. Dr. Laxman Bahroo, Movement Disorder Neurologist at MedStar Georgetown University, will present alongside Journey Ambassador Brenda, a care partner with firsthand experience. This free, interactive session is open to anyone affected by Parkinson’s, offering practical insights, support, and connection.
Wellness Wednesday: Peace, Presence, and Parkinson's: Making the Most of the Holidays
There will be no Wellness Wednesday webinar in December, but we invite you to check out our November session:
Peace, Presence, and Parkinson’s: Making the Most of the Holidays.
Hear from Dr. Lilia C. Lovera on managing Parkinson’s disease symptoms through the holiday season. This talk offered practical tips on keeping up with medications, exercises, and nutrition, helping patients enjoy time with friends and family without feeling exhausted or overwhelmed.
Make the most of the holiday season with helpful insights from an expert. Watch now and empower yourself or your loved ones living with Parkinson’s.
Please note that starting January 2026, all Wednesday Webinars (includes Virtual Support Group,
Wellness Wednesday, and Educational Webinars) will be held at 12:00 PM eastern time.
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 1-866-903-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 more than 50 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 connections within the community. Visit PAC’s website to see if there’s a support group near you, and then contact PAC to learn more at 980-245-2786 or 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 1-866-903-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.
Please Note: Yoga for PD with Aminta and Yoga Tools for Caregivers will take a holiday break from December 23 through January 4. The last classes of the year will be held on December 22, with sessions resuming on January 5, 2026.
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.
Seeking volunteers for clinical research study: individuals with Parkinson’s disease, DBS, and FOG.
Volunteers are needed for a clinical research study involving people with Parkinson’s disease who have bilateral deep brain stimulation (DBS), and freezing of gate (FOG). The study involves using your existing DBS system to deliver a stimulation program that may reduce your FOG. No surgery or new medications are required.
Study participation includes five visits over the course of about four months. Participants will be compensated for their time.
Make an Impact: Partnering with PAC
Team PAC Shines at the 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon
The 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon was an inspiring day filled with perseverance, community, and hope, and PAC was honored to be at the heart of it. As an official charity partner, we were proud to have Team PAC hit the streets to run for a cause that touches so many lives. This effort is part of our Miles for Movement initiative, which encourages participants to turn every mile into meaningful support for people living with Parkinson’s.
Celebrating Team PAC Runners
We are overjoyed to recognize our incredible Team PAC runners, whose dedication and determination made every step count. Every stride taken by our team was a step toward hope, awareness, and a future with better support and treatments for those affected by Parkinson’s in the Carolinas. Your courage and energy inspire us all.
Laurie Harrison, Kirk Brown, Dave Herpy, Missy Dyer, Jaylon Proctor, Jared Proctor, Cynthia Proctor, Charlie Godfrey, Justin McNeil, Josh Proctor, Sarah Park, Bri Lindsay, Nerma LaFrance, Beth Helms, Ryan Helms, Isaac Helms, Caroline Speck, Trecia Godfrey, Robert Rooney, and Lauren Speck.
Heartfelt Thanks to Our Sponsors
We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors for making this possible. Your support ensures PAC can continue to fund research, provide vital programs, and offer hope to families and individuals living with Parkinson’s.
- Anne & Walker Poole, in honor of Robert McMillan
- Crossroads Wellness & Rehab
- Action Plus Ideas
Team PAC Fundraising Achievement
PAC's Mission in Motion
Photo courtesy of Southminster
PAC Brings Resources and Event Updates to Southminster Parkinson’s Group
Joanna and Gillian recently visited Southminster in Charlotte, NC, to meet with the local Parkinson’s disease support group. They gave an informative presentation highlighting PAC’s services, resources, and programs available to the Parkinson’s community. Attendees also learned about upcoming events, leaving the group inspired and connected to PAC’s support network.
Photo courtesy of Encompass Health Corporation
PAC Explores Collaboration Opportunities at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fort Mill
Gillian and Joanna recently visited Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fort Mill to tour the facility and learn more about the services they provide. During their visit, they explored potential ways to collaborate to better support patients with Parkinson’s disease. The meeting fostered connections and opened opportunities for future partnerships to enhance care and resources for the Parkinson’s community.
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 provide valuable insights into living well with Parkinson’s and often cover topics relevant to overall wellness, caregiving, and brain health. Whether you’re curious about the latest research, looking for creative ways to stay active, or seeking tools for mindfulness and renewal, these sessions are designed to inform, inspire, and support both people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners.
Free Training: Building Confidence in the Workplace
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 3:00 PM to 4:30 PMColumbia, SC or Greenville SC Able Offices
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 3:00 PM to 4:00 PMOnline
This training is designed to help participants build confidence and develop practical skills for success in the workplace. Through interactive exercises and guided discussions, you’ll learn strategies to improve communication, navigate workplace challenges, and advocate for yourself effectively.
Hosted by South Carolina Department on Aging
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!
How to prepare for a neurology appointment
Preparing for a neurology appointment is key to making the most of your time with your doctor. Patients and caregivers should create a list of questions, track new symptoms, and collaborate as a team to ensure nothing is overlooked. Advocating for your needs and asking questions helps you leave the appointment with answers and potential solutions for managing Parkinson’s disease effectively.
Read More
DOD funds trial of exercise program for Parkinson’s swallowing
A $1.9 million Phase 2 clinical trial funded by the U.S. Department of Defense will test SwallowFIT, a targeted exercise program designed to retrain the brain and muscles involved in swallowing, in people with Parkinson’s disease. Pilot studies showed that SwallowFIT improved swallowing ability, increased confidence during meals, and reduced choking episodes, enhancing both safety and quality of life. The trial aims to evaluate the program’s effectiveness compared with usual care, potentially paving the way for proactive therapies that address dysphagia and improve independence for Parkinson’s patients.
Read More
Update your PAC Communication Preferences
Soon we’ll begin sending emails tailored to your communication preferences, ensuring you receive only the updates that matter most to you. Whether you want to stay informed about programs and events, like exercise classes, support groups, webinars, and in-person gatherings, or prefer a monthly newsletter that highlights everything happening at PAC, you get to choose what lands in your inbox.
We want to make sure you’re only receiving emails that are helpful, interesting, and relevant to you. By updating your email preferences, you can choose exactly what you want to hear from PAC and share your connection to Parkinson’s.
You can select the types of email communications you’d like to receive, such as:
- Monthly Newsletter
- Programs & Events
- Donor Communications
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Special Communications
It only takes a few seconds and helps us avoid sending emails you don’t want. Plus, it ensures you never miss important updates from PAC that matter to you.
Connect with PAC Online
Where can I view Instagram Stories?
To view PAC’s stories, just tap on our profile photo – it’s a red and green tulip! If you like our story, you can send us a “heart” in the bottom right-hand corner!
Where can I view Facebook Stories?
Similar to Instagram Stories, content shared to stories will appear at the top of the Facebook News Feed. To view a story, users simply tap the Parkinson Association Logo circle at the top of the app (if it has a blue circle around it). While viewing a story, users can also reply with a direct message to let us know if you liked our story!
