Welcoming Summer with Community and Connection
Our MoveIt! Walk Wilmington on May 16 was a meaningful day filled with community, encouragement, and connection. It was wonderful to see individuals living with Parkinson’s, care partners, families, friends, and supporters come together to walk side by side and support one another. This year’s walk welcomed 93 participants and raised $23,841. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who walked, donated, volunteered, and helped make the day so special.
As we move into the summer months, PAC looks forward to continuing those opportunities for connection through EmpowerED: Parkinson’s Education & Connection in Myrtle Beach on June 20. This special event is designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s and care partners who are looking for practical information, encouragement, and time to connect with others in a welcoming environment. Guests will hear from expert speakers, participate in a Yoga for Parkinson’s session, enjoy lunch together, and leave with valuable resources and support.
We’re also encouraged to see important advocacy conversations continuing nationwide. Recently, Vermont became the first state to pass legislation banning the use of paraquat, a pesticide linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. You can learn more about this advocacy effort and read our newest blog article on the topic on PAC’s website.
Whether you joined us in Wilmington or are looking for a new way to connect with the Parkinson’s community this summer, we hope you’ll join us in Myrtle Beach and continue staying engaged with PAC programs, events, and advocacy efforts.
Thank You to our Newsletter Sponsor
Illness or injury recovery for patients with Parkinson’s
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospitals of Columbia and Irmo understand the unique needs of patients living with Parkinson’s disease. Patients with Parkinson’s who are recovering from life-changing illnesses or injuries often require specialized care to support both ongoing recovery and manage Parkinson’s symptoms. Encompass Health of Columbia and Irmo have highly trained nurses and therapists who are experienced in helping patients with Parkinson’s heal from conditions such as hip fractures or strokes and achieve their highest level of independence through customized, comprehensive therapy programs. To learn more about the admissions process or schedule a tour of the hospital, contact Encompass Health Columbia at (803) 401-1332 or Encompass Health Irmo at (839) 313-4001.
Tools for Your Journey: Education & Support Programs
We invite you to join us for PAC’s June programs designed to support, educate, and connect our community. As a reminder, the Virtual Support Group, Wednesday Webinar, and Wellness Wednesday 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: Let's Talk
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Online via Zoom
This month’s Virtual Support Group will be an open forum designed to bring together people living with Parkinson’s and care partners for meaningful conversation, shared experiences, and connection. Join us in a welcoming and supportive space where you can ask questions, offer encouragement, and connect with others who understand the Parkinson’s journey.
Wellness Wednesday
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Online via Zoom
We invite those living with Parkinson’s, care partners, and community members to Wellness Wednesday, a free webinar on Zoom focused on self-care, well-being, and living well. Stay tuned for more information about the topic and speaker!
Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) Support Group
Thursday, June 18, 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.
The Parkinson Association of the Carolinas (PAC) is excited to be coming to Myrtle Beach this June for a special day of education, support, and connection designed to bring together and strengthen the local Parkinson’s community.
Join us on June 20, from 10 AM – 1 PM for EmpowerED: Parkinson’s Education & Connection. We will have expert speakers who will share practical information and encouragement to help you live best today with Parkinson’s, a Yoga for Parkinson’s exercise session, lunch, and time to socialize and build meaningful relationships with others who share similar experiences.
We hope that those with Parkinson’s, care partners, and family members will join us for a day of learning, support, and community.
PAC is proud to partner with Smart Patients, an online community for patients and care partners affected by Parkinson’s community.
The online peer-to-peer support of the Smart Patients Parkinson’s Disease Community complements PAC’s support and resources, to make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson’s and their loved ones.
Join Smart Patients, ask questions for yourself, and support others who can learn from your experiences.
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.
We’ve recently added two valuable sessions from our 2026 Care Partner Summit.
- Prioritizing Self-Care Helps Prevent Stress & Burnout
- On Your Feet: Fall Prevention & Safe Assistance Skills
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: Therapeutic Yoga for Parkinson’s with Aminta will not meet on the following days: Wednesday, June 3 (Online via Zoom); Saturday, June 6 (Charlotte, NC); and Monday, June 8 (Belmont, NC). Yoga Tools for Caregivers with Aminta will not meet on Thursday, June 4.
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.
Summer is the perfect time to build simple, sustainable movement into your day, and the Moving with the PAC Challenge is here to help you do just that at your own pace and in your own way.
This year-long challenge encourages individuals living with Parkinson’s, care partners, and community members to increase daily movement, support overall wellbeing, and raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease. Whether you’re walking, attending a class, or moving at home, every bit of activity counts.
Getting started is easy: set a goal that works for you, such as daily steps, weekly activity, or consistent movement days, and track your progress using a smartwatch, phone, pedometer, or our downloadable trackers. There’s no wrong way to track your movement!.
If you’d like, you can also share your journey with the #MovingwiththePAC community on social media, where encouragement and small victories can be celebrated along the way.
This summer, focus on small, consistent steps that help you stay active, connected, and supported.
Ready to take the first step? Join the challenge today.
Share your progress with us by posting your movement tracker or a picture on social media and tagging PAC or sending us an email.
Make an Impact: Partnering with PAC
Moving for a Cause: Celebrating 2026 MoveIt! Walk Wilmington
What an incredible day at Long Leaf Park! The 2026 MoveIt! Walk Wilmington brought together individuals living with Parkinson’s, care partners, families, friends, sponsors, and community members for a powerful morning of movement, fundraising, and connection. Together, we showed what it means to move for a cause and stand with our Parkinson’s community across the Carolinas.
- 93 people attended the event
- Total funds raised so far $23,841
We are also excited to recognize this year’s award winners:
- Top fundraising individual: Sherrie Brown
- Top fundraising team: Cape Fear Movers & Spinners
- Team with most members: Rock Steady Boxing of Wilmington
Every dollar raised and every step taken directly supports programs, services, and resources for individuals and families impacted by Parkinson’s disease.
This event would not have been possible without the incredible generosity and commitment of our sponsors and exhibitors: Supernus, Abbott, Amneal, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Acadia, Ceregate, Bodies in Balance, Abbvie, and Comfort Keepers.
Thank you to every participant, volunteer, donor, and supporter who made this day so meaningful.
PAC's Mission in Motion
PAC Visits The Pines at Davidson Parkinson’s Support Group
This month, Joanna Chantemerle, PAC’s Executive Director, had the opportunity to visit the Parkinson’s Support Group at The Pines at Davidson to share more about the many programs, services, and resources offered through PAC. .
During the visit, Joanna spoke with attendees about the variety of ways PAC supports individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, care partners, and families throughout the community. From wellness and exercise programs to educational opportunities, support groups, and special events, the conversation highlighted the importance of connection, education, and access to resources for those navigating Parkinson’s.
Sharing Support, Resources, and Parkinson’s Education Across North Carolina
Gillian was welcomed at the Cabarrus County Parkinson’s Support Group in Concord, NC, where she shared information about PAC’s programs and services and shared information about how PAC supports the Parkinson’s community. It was a great meeting with great conversation and questions. Gillian also led a webinar, Parkinson’s Disease: Beyond the Diagnosis for the KPMG offices in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Wilmington, where she presented information about Parkinson’s disease, busted some common myths, and shared PAC resources. KMPG is a global accounting firm. They reached out to PAC wanting to learn more to support their employees affected by Parkinson’s and to learn more about the disease.
If your organization is interested in having PAC come to you with a presentation about programs and services or a general Parkinson’s presentation, please contact Gillian at gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org or (980) 245-2786.
PAC Attends the 7th World Parkinson’s Congress in Phoenix
Joanna and Gillian had the privilege of attending the 7th World Parkinson’s Congress in Phoenix, AZ. This global gathering of people with Parkinson’s, their care partners, family members, Healthcare professionals, and scientists, was an inspirational and impactful experience. There was something for everyone, from sessions about the progression of Parkinson’s, movement classes, policy issues, genetic and environmental risk factors, Parkinson’s and women, treatments in the pipeline, and so much more. From presentations given by doctors and researchers, to the lived experience of people with Parkinson’s, an overarching theme was the importance of hope, community, and that you are not alone in your journey battling Parkinson’s.
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.
Free Event: Senior Lifestyle, Health & Home Expo
📅 Wednesday, June 17, 2026
🕑 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM | Omar Shrine Center, 176 Patriots Point Rd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
The Senior Lifestyle, Health & Home Expo is a free event for seniors with free admission and parking, along with light snacks, prizes, and giveaways, plus access to valuable resources, education, and services that support healthy aging and aging in place, including free onsite colon cancer screenings provided by Guardant Health.
Free Event: Age Ready Series | Safe and Sound: Making Your Home Ready
Saturday June 20, 2026
2:00 PM | HYBRID: Richland Library North Main, 5306 N Main St, Columbia, SC 29203 or Online
The University of South Carolina is hosting an Age Ready series to provide older adults and caregivers with accessible, practical information to support independence. Safe and Sound: Making Your Home Ready for Aging in Place, focuses on simple, affordable home modifications to improve safety, mobility, and comfort.
Free Webinar: Finding the Best Parkinson's Clinical Trial for You
📅 Thursday, June 18, 2025
🕑 12:00 PM | Online
This webinar explores how you can tell if a Parkinson’s clinical trial is right for you. Hear from an expert panel discussing the process and what to expect before, during, and after participation while also giving you the opportunity to ask your questions live.
Hosted by The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
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!
In May, lawmakers in Vermont passed the first legislation banning the use of paraquat, a pesticide that has been associated with a two times higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. This bipartisan legislation is the first of its kind, and part of a nationwide public advocacy initiative aimed at addressing this issue at the state and federal levels.
Scientists to study link between pesticides and Parkinson’s
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai, as part of a global team funded by a $9 million Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP) grant, are studying how environmental exposures such as pesticides and air pollution may interact with genetics to influence the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. By using stem cell models derived from individuals with and without Parkinson’s, the team aims to better understand why some people develop the disease under similar environmental conditions while others do not, with the goal of informing future prevention and personalized treatment approaches. Read More
PPMI: The Study that’s Changing Everything
The Parkinson’s Precision Medicine Initiative (PPMI), launched by The Michael J. Fox Foundation, is a landmark global study tracking people with and without Parkinson’s to better understand how the disease develops and progresses over time. Now expanded and renamed to reflect advances in precision medicine, PPMI continues to rely on volunteers to help drive breakthroughs in early detection, prevention, and future treatments. Read More
Prebiotics balance gut bacteria and show results in Parkinson’s blood
Researchers have found that a specialized prebiotic supplement may help restore balance in gut bacteria for people with Parkinson’s disease, while also revealing a new way to monitor disease activity through a simple blood test. By analyzing tiny blood-borne particles called extracellular vesicles, scientists were able to track changes in gut and immune system signals after prebiotic treatment, suggesting a potential noninvasive tool for understanding and monitoring Parkinson’s progression and treatment response. Read More
In Memoriam: Honoring Our Parkinson’s Community
We recognize that the Parkinson’s journey touches not only those living with the disease, but also the families, friends, and loved ones who walk alongside them. In this space, we honor and remember members of our Parkinson’s community who have passed away.
This In Memoriam section is a way to celebrate their lives, share their stories, and acknowledge the lasting impact they’ve had on those around them. We invite families and loved ones to submit a tribute to recognize someone special who has been part of our community.
If you would like to learn more about including a loved one in this section, please contact:
Charlie Godfrey
Development Director
📧 cgodfrey@parkinsonassociation.org
📞 (980) 245-2786
We are honored to help preserve and share the memories of those who will always remain part of the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas community.
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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!
