Lodi Parkinson’s Support Group receives $10K grant
The Lodi Parkinson’s Support Group has announced the receipt of a $10,000 grant to provide services to organizations working with patients and families affected by Parkinson’s disease. The donor has requested to remain anonymous. The funds will be dispersed to organizations throughout San Joaquin County. Lodi Parkinson’s Support Group falls under the umbrella organization, Parkinson’s Association of Northern California (PANC).
Lodi Parkinson’s Group has dispersed a portion of the funds to the PANC’s Hispanic Outreach Program to use at their discretion, throughout San Joaquin County and their service area. Knockout Parkinson’s, a nonprofit organization associated with the Rock Steady Boxing, in Lodi, has also received funds. This program, which was started by coach Sheldon Vicks, specifically benefits people with Parkinson’s disease.
A portion of the funds will be used for outreach and public relations to better inform the community of services available to those afflicted with Parkinson’s Disease.
Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that involves the malfunction and death of cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical that sends messages to the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination. Many Parkinson’s patients have difficulty with sleeping, tremors, handwriting, freezing of gait, loss of smell, very low voice, a “masked” facial expression, memory, and cognitive issues. But it is a “designer” disease, so symptoms vary from person to person, as does the rate of progression. There are about 90,000 new patients diagnosed each year, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Currently there is no cure, but medications and exercise programs can make a big difference.
The Lodi Parkinson’s Support Group offers information and encouragement to those suffering from Parkinson’s and their caregivers. If you, a friend, or a loved one suffer from Parkinson’s disease, the group invites you to join, to share your concerns and to learn how to take steps to live well with Parkinson’s. For more information, call Maureen at 209329-1185, Robin at 209-269-1080, or Charlene at 916-600-5769.