Giving Thanks for Our Parkinson’s Community and Caregivers
As November arrives and the air turns crisp, we’re reminded that this is a season of gratitude. At the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas (PAC), we are deeply thankful for our incredible community: those living with Parkinson’s disease, their care partners, families, volunteers, and supporters who make our mission possible each and every day.
This month, we also honor National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the dedication, patience, and love that caregivers bring to their roles. Caring for someone with Parkinson’s can be both profoundly rewarding and deeply challenging. It requires strength, compassion, and a network of support, and that’s where PAC is proud to step in.
Through our Virtual Support Groups, Wellness Wednesday Webinars, Care Partner Summit, and one-on-one resource navigation, we’re committed to providing care partners with education, emotional support, and community connections.
Click here to view the PAC Care Partner Resources.
This Thanksgiving, we’re especially grateful for the individuals and care partners who embody strength and resilience, and for everyone who helps PAC continue empowering the Parkinson’s community to live well today.
From all of us at the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas, thank you for being part of our PAC family.
Tools for Your Journey: Education & Support Programs
Virtual Support Group
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Online via Zoom
Join PAC for November’s Virtual Support Group to explore the differences between Parkinson’s disease and atypical Parkinsonisms, including PSP, CBD, and MSA. This session will cover the symptoms and symptom management of PSP, CBD and MSA, as well as provide education and resources to support people who are living with these conditions.
Achieve More Continuous GOOD ON Time
Thursday, November 13, 2025 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Online via Zoom
Join for an educational webinar sponsored by Supernus Pharmaceuticals, featuring Dr. Sanjay S. Iyer, MD, Medical Director at Memory and Movement Charlotte. Learn how to improve “GOOD ON” time, manage Parkinson’s symptoms more effectively, and discover how new treatments can help you live well with Parkinson’s.
Wellness Wednesday
Wednesday, November 19, 2025 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Online via Zoom
Join us for November’s Wellness Wednesday for a FREE educational and interactive Zoom session focused on self-care, stress management, and overall wellbeing. This session is designed to help people with Parkinson’s, caregivers, family members, and community members proactively support their mental, physical, and emotional health. Stay tuned for details on the specific topic and speaker!
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. Learn more about a group near you! Call 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 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.
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. Call 980-245-2786 or email gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org to learn more.
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.
Make an Impact: Partnering with PAC
As we reflect on another year serving the Parkinson’s community, one thing remains clear: we are stronger together. Every connection, every class, every conversation; it all begins with compassion and grows through our community.
Across the Carolinas, thousands of individuals and families are navigating the challenges of Parkinson’s disease. Some are newly diagnosed and searching for guidance. Others are care partners, quietly giving their time, energy, and love every single day. And thanks to supporters like you, PAC is there for each of them, offering free programs, support groups, educational webinars, and movement classes that bring hope and help when it’s needed most.
But we can’t do it without you!
This season of giving, we ask you to make a gift to PAC and help us continue empowering people with Parkinson’s to live well today. Every dollar makes a difference, and every act of generosity brings light and strength to someone’s life.
Miles for Movement: Promoting PAC and Parkinson's Awareness
The countdown is on! The 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is just two weeks away on Saturday, November 15!
PAC is proud to be a charity partner for this inspiring community event. Through our Miles for Movement initiative, every step taken by Team PAC helps raise awareness and vital support for individuals and families living with Parkinson’s across the Carolinas.
When you join Team PAC, you’re not only challenging yourself; you’re fueling programs, resources, and hope for our Parkinson’s community.
It’s not too late to be part of the movement! You can still sign up, spread the word, or show your support for Team PAC runners as they go the distance for Parkinson’s. Contact Charlie Godfrey, Development and Major Gift Director, at 980-245-2786 or cgodfrey@parkinsonassociation.org to join Team PAC or learn how to contribute.
We’re proud to share that Charlie was recently featured on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Charlie used the platform to showcase the incredible work of the Parkinson’s Association of the Carolinas, which supports people living with Parkinson’s in the Carolinas, along with their caregivers and families. From education and care programs to community outreach, PAC empowers individuals to live well with Parkinson’s every day.
Take 20 minutes to hear Charlie highlight PAC’s mission, share the impact of our programs, and inspire listeners to get involved. Listen to the episode here.
Partner with Purpose: 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities with PAC
Looking ahead to 2026, PAC is excited to offer sponsorship opportunities for businesses and organizations eager to make a difference in the Parkinson’s community.
By partnering with PAC, corporate partners help fund programs, educational resources, and events that support people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners across the Carolinas. Your sponsorship demonstrates a commitment to health, wellness, and community impact and provides meaningful visibility for your organization.
Learn more about available opportunities and how you can join us in making a difference in 2026. Contact Charlie Godfrey, Development and Major Gift Director, at 980-245-2786 or cgodfrey@parkinsonassociation.org.
PAC's Mission in Motion
Connecting Community and Wellness: PAC at the Active Aging Health and Wellness Fair
Our team had the pleasure of representing PAC at the Body and Soul Senior Fitness “Active Aging Health and Wellness Fair” at Covenant United Methodist Church in Charlotte.
Joanna, Gillian, and Jasmine shared resources and information about living well with Parkinson’s disease, helping attendees learn about programs and support available across the Carolinas. Gillian also delivered a powerful presentation highlighting PAC’s impact and the ways our community is empowered to stay active and connected. We’re honored to support lifelong wellness, build meaningful connections, and continue spreading awareness about Parkinson’s disease throughout the region.
Reaching New Heights with UpENDing Parkinson’s
Joanna, Gillian, and Charlie recently took PAC’s mission to new heights with the Charlotte UpENDing Parkinson’s group at Inner Peaks South End! They experienced firsthand how rock climbing empowers people living with Parkinson’, enhancing balance, coordination, and the mind-body connection, all while fostering a supportive and uplifting community. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to Dr. Sophia Dalabakis, Kevin Collins, the Inner Peaks South End team, and all the dedicated volunteers who make these inspiring sessions possible.
Want to join in? Climbing sessions are open to individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners. Sessions take place on Wednesdays from 10 AM to 12 PM at Inner Peaks South End and on Fridays from 1 PM to 3 PM at Inner Peaks Matthews. For more information, contact Dr. Sophia Dalabakis at sophia@vitalityptnc.com.
Raising Awareness at the Templeton of Cary Health Fair
Gillian raised awareness of Parkinson’s disease and PAC resources at the Templeton of Cary Health Fair. The Templeton of Cary is a Continuing Care Retirement Community just outside of Raleigh, NC. Gillian met several residents living with Parkinson’s disease and care partners, and provided them with information about how to get involved with PAC.
By participating in community events like this, PAC continues to spread awareness and empower those affected by Parkinson’s disease to live well today.
Helping Caregivers Provide Better Care for Their Clients with Parkinson's Disease
Beyond PAC: Community Education Corner
In addition to PAC’s local offerings, we’re pleased to highlight educational webinars and resources from respected 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.
Webinar: Get Ready for Medicare 2026: What You Need to Know
📅 Wednesday, November 12, 2025
🕑 1:00 PM | Online
Learn more about Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) and key resources from the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) This session will explore the latest Medicare updates for 2026, including new coverage options, important deadlines, and tips to prepare for Open Enrollment.
Hosted by Centralina Area Agency on Aging
Webinar: Parkinson’s Research Progress in 2025
Thursday, November 20, 2025 12:00 PM | Online
Learn more about breakthroughs in Parkinson’s research and the progress made in 2025 to improve treatments and care. This session will explore what these advancements mean for the future of Parkinson’s care and gives 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!
November is National Family Caregivers Month
This November, we honor the dedicated family caregivers who provide around-the-clock support for loved ones living with Parkinson’s disease. Their tireless care, organization, and compassion make a profound difference every day, often balancing responsibilities, appointments, and hands-on care to help loved ones live well. At PAC, we are proud to offer resources, support groups, and programs designed to lift up caregivers and connect them with the community they need. Join us in celebrating caregivers this month and learn more about National Family Caregivers Month at the National Council on Aging. Read More
Voter Accessibility for Individuals with Parkinson’s
The November 4 election is just days away, and it’s important that everyone, including people living with Parkinson’s disease, can exercise their right to vote safely and independently. Both North Carolina and South Carolina offer resources to make voting accessible, from early voting and mail-in ballots to accessible polling locations. PAC encourages voters with Parkinson’s to explore available accommodations, plan ahead, and reach out to local election offices for guidance on accessible voting options. For more information, visit these resources: North Carolina State Board of Elections, AARP NC Voter Guide, Disability Rights NC- Accessible Voting, South Carolina Election Commission, and Disability Rights SC- Accessible Voting websites to learn about deadlines, absentee ballot requests, and accessible polling sites.
Tools to navigate a hospital stay with Parkinson’s disease
For people living with Parkinson’s disease, medication timing is as important as the dose to help manage symptoms like tremor, stiffness, and slowed movement. Hospitalizations can be especially challenging, as many patients do not receive medications on time, leading to avoidable complications. PAC encourages caregivers to plan ahead and advocate for loved ones to ensure medications and care are managed safely during hospital stays. Read More
Parkinson’s therapy is tolerated well, clearing path for Phase 2 trial
Experimental therapy HER-096 has shown it can safely penetrate the blood-brain barrier and was well tolerated in a Phase 1b trial involving people with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease. The results support moving forward to a Phase 2 trial to evaluate its effectiveness as a potential disease-modifying treatment. This milestone brings hope for new therapies aimed at slowing disease progression and improving quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s. Read More
ARV-102 Shows Promise in Early Parkinson’s Study
The experimental therapy ARV-102 has been shown to safely reach the brain and reduce harmful LRRK2 protein levels in both healthy volunteers and people with Parkinson’s disease. Early clinical results indicate the therapy engages key pathways linked to nerve cell damage, supporting its continued development as a potential disease-modifying treatment. Additional patient data are expected next year, offering hope for new approaches to slowing Parkinson’s progression. Read More
Connect with PAC Online
Keep Your PAC Communication Preferences Up to Date
We want to make sure you’re receiving the information that matters most to you from the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas. Take a few minutes to review and update your communication preferences so you don’t miss updates, resources, and news that support you and your loved ones. Staying connected ensures you get the content that’s most relevant to your journey with Parkinson’s.
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!
