By Kate Fiorianti | March 10, 2022

No specific diet is recommended for individuals living with Parkinson’s, but it is important to maintain overall good health.  Below are a few tips to consider but consult with your doctor or dietitian before starting any new diet. They can help design a healthy, balanced diet to fit your individual needs and improve well-being.

Maintaining Your Health

• Avoid “fad” diets. Eat food from all food groups, following guidelines of the S. Department of Agriculture MyPlate program. Eating a variety of foods will help you get the energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber you need for good health.
• Choose a diet with plenty of grain products, vegetables, and fruits, which provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and complex carbohydrates and can help you lower your intake of fat.
• Limit sugar intake. A diet with lots of sugar can have too many calories and too few nutrients.
• Incorporate foods high in antioxidants (which are important for overall brain health) into your diet. These include brightly colored and dark fruits and vegetables.
• Choose a diet low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol to reduce your risk of heart attack and certain types of cancer and to help you maintain a healthy weight.

Eating to Ease PD Symptoms

• Drink enough water (six glasses a day) and eat fiber-rich foods, including brown rice, whole grains (breads with three grams or more of dietary fiber per slice), fruit and beans to ease digestive difficulties and constipation.
• Take your medications with a full glass of water. It may help your body break down the medication more efficiently.
• Limit sugar intake, alcohol, and caffeine particularly before bed, as they may interrupt sleep.
• Snack on small quantities of walnuts, cashews, and other nuts to promote brain health. Also try to incorporate berries, which contain beneficial antioxidants, and foods that may have anti-inflammatory effects in the brain, like salmon, tuna, and dark, leafy green vegetables.

Tips for Getting Started

It is important to consult with your doctor before changing your diet as some of your medications maybe required to eat in timing with your meals. It is also recommended you bring in a registered dietitian, who can help you plan menus and make shopping lists for preparing nutritious meals that you like and that account for your individual needs and the timing of your medications.

For more information download the Parkinson’s Foundation Nutrition Matters Book

By Kate Fiorianti | January 17, 2022

Meet Roxanne!

Originally from Livingston, TN, Roxanne and her husband Gary currently reside in Cookeville, TN.

Roxanne is one of the founding members of the Cookeville Support Group and continues to be active, not only in her local group, but participates in several programs and events with PFP.

Here is what Roxanne has to say about her Parkinson’s journey.

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in May of 2011. Frankly, I didn’t know what Parkinson’s was, but I was already a very active person. When I had PD about 6 yrs., a friend in Franklin living with Parkinson’s, told me to look at the groups on Facebook. What information!!  I started going to physical therapy (PT) and I soon realized there were no resources for individuals living with PD in this area. I am very much a people person, so at the urging of my PT, I formed the Parkinson’s Support Group of Cookeville & Surrounding. I covered six counties. The Director of the Senior Citizens Center walked in one day, and said she had a room. I was able to form a Rock Steady Boxing Program and the membership grew quickly. Not only was I helping people, but I was having a wonderful time. I thought – Who was this woman!?

At this time I joined the PFP, and we became the PFP Support Group of Cookeville. The PFP introduced me to a Parkinson’s world that I had no idea existed. I made many, many new friends. When I asked what I should do, I was told ” Go do what you do!!” I don’t know what it was either, but ” My pleasure! ” When there were 65 people attending, the PFP came and formed a Steering Committee for the group. I decided to take a step back from leadership became greeter, and mentor.

We are now over 3 years old. I look back and think ” How on earth did I do that!?”. I think it was a God thing.

I did something that should be an inspiration to everyone. Just say ” Yes I Can”.

By Kate Fiorianti | December 7, 2021

If you have ever been to a Franklin Support Group meeting, or attended the Navigating the Parkinson’s Path Annual Expo, you have probably been greeted by Reggie.

Reggie Gaulle has been a part of the Parkinson’s community since 2008, when Patricia, Reggie’s wife was diagnosed with PD. Reggie was observing new tremors, increased fatigue, and cognitive decline in Patricia when they decided to visit her doctor for a diagnosis. As a care partner, Reggie has learned how Patricia’s “new brain” works and her changing limitations. “She and I have survived my cooking; the bills are paid, and the house is not in too bad a shape,” joked Reggie when asked how life has changed since retiring in 2020 and taking on more household tasks. Together, they enjoy traveling, watching tv, spending time with others and helping others in the Parkinson’s Community.

Reggie is part of the Franklin Support Group Steering Committee and head of the Encouragement Team Leaders. “The fellowship with others, who have been touched by this disease, has been invaluable,” said Reggie. The programs, services, and information provided through PFP events have provided insight on how to navigate this journey the Gaulle’s call life. “It is not over yet. However, with the help of the professionals in our lives [great doctors, nurses and therapists] and the fellowship we have met on this journey, I feel that we will both make it, and continue to enjoy the latter part of our life together.”

By Kate Fiorianti | November 12, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Nashville, TN November 12, 2021 – The Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s has joined #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities, and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. More than 6,400 people in Middle Tennessee are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease PFP’s mission is to support and enhance lives of people with Parkinson’s, their care partners, and families to achieve their highest possible quality of life through awareness, education, and programs within a caring community. We can not do that without your help.

Occurring this year on November 30, 2021, #GivingTuesday is held annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving (in the US) and widely recognized shopping events, Black Friday and Cyber Monday to kick off the holiday season and inspire people to collaborate in improving their local communities and give back in impactful ways to the charities and causes they support.

“It is important the foundation continues to provide programs, events and support to the Parkinson’s Community,” states Brent Peterson, Founder and Board Chair of the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s, “The #GivingTuesday movement allows us to share this support beyond Nashville into the greater Middle Tennessee area and encourage others to join our mission.”

About PFP

Founded in 2009, the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s is a non-profit with a mission to support and enhance lives of people with Parkinson’s, their care partners, and their families to achieve their highest possible quality of life through awareness, education, and programs within a caring community.

About #GivingTuesday

GivingTuesday is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world.
To learn more about #GivingTuesday participants and activities or to join the celebration of giving, please visit:
Website: www.givingtuesday.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GivingTuesday

To learn more about PFP please visit:

Website: www.petersonforparkinsons.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PetersonFoundation
Twitter: twitter.com/PFParkinsons

Contact:

Debbie Lowenthal
Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s
Executive Director
brent@petersonforparkinsons.org

By Kate Fiorianti | October 28, 2021

The Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s had the opportunity to speak with Nashville native, Don Thomas and his journey with Parkinson’s. Don grew up in the Nashville area for most of his life. He attended Glencliff High School and then to Middle TN State University for college and graduate school.   In 1973, he married his wife, Vicki, and they have 3 children and 2 grandchildren.  Before retiring Don worked in medical sales and sales management, including VP of Sales for OrthoHelix Medical.

After experiencing tremors in his left hand, Don visited Dr. Fang at Vanderbilt and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012. It was the same Dr. Fang who introduced him to PFP. Don says “interaction with the members [of PFP support groups] and hearing how they approach their myriad of problems faced day to day” support him throughout his Parkinson’s journey. Not only does the foundation provide support for Don, but he stated his wife has built a support system.

Even though Don is living with Parkinson’s he is not letting the diagnosis affect his golf game or spending time with his grandchildren in Charleston, SC.

By Kate Fiorianti | October 7, 2021

Studies suggest that singing interventions have the potential to increase vocal loudness, respiratory muscle strength, and voice-related quality of life in people with Parkinson’s disease.

Communication impairment is common among Parkinson’s patients. Around 90% of those living with Parkinson’s have voice and speech changes, and a patient’s voice can become difficult to hear due to throat muscle rigidity (stiffness). This in turn can cause a patient to remove themselves from social interactions and lose confidence.

The Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s partnered with In Harmony Music to start the Peterson’s Choir which has recently been renamed Peterson Voices, a group led by choral director Carrie Friddell, a nationally board-certified Music Therapist. Since 2017, the group has been meeting weekly to lift up their voices, not only to sing but perform vocal exercises that helps improve overall vocal health. The group continued their practices on zoom during Covid and now offers a hybrid in-person and zoom weekly practice.

“I had gone from a high soprano with the Nashville symphony to barely being able to sing alto” states Laurie. “Attending this group weekly, brought me back to a soprano within 6 months.”

Data conducted by Vanderbilt on the choir in 2018, reiterated what many research studies have shown. During the informal data collected participants were asked to sustain the sound “ahhh” at their comfortable volume for as long as possible. As a group, the participants improved from an average of 12.5 seconds to 15.5 seconds over the course of a year.  Increase in duration for this measure suggests improvement in breath support. “I couldn’t sing a note for longer than 6 seconds, now I can go hold a note for 10 or 12 seconds.” states John.

Additionally, the “ahhh” volume showed an increase of 6-10 dB, essentially doubling their volume and making the group’s sound increase significantly.

Not only does the choir enjoy their weekly meetings, but they have had the opportunity to perform in the community. They have performed at local nursing homes, the Franklin Support Group holiday party, even at a neurology event at Vanderbilt.

For more information on the Peterson Voices, contact Carrie Friddell, MT-BC at carrie@inharmonymusicmidtn.com

By Kate Fiorianti | July 26, 2021

PFP had the opportunity to learn about Marsha Dunn’s Parkinson’s Journey. Marsha is a native Tennessean, graduating from Antioch High School and Middle Tennessee State University. She lives in Nashville with her husband and 2 daughters.

Marsha has been employed by Metro Nashville Public Schools for 35 years. In her free time to loves to be outside swimming or gardening. She enjoys reading, playing games and does some thrill seeking by riding rollercoasters and zip lines. Her favorite place to relax is on the beach.

Marsha was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in September 2017. When asked what her primary symptoms were she said, “My left side, particularly my hand and fingers, sometimes will not follow the commands of my brain.   I smell only a few things such as Windex and cigarette smoke and I have trouble sleeping through the night.” After a Parkinson’s Meet-and-Greet Marsha, John Tso, and David Green met and the Active with Parkinson’s Group was created.

As someone who is very involved in PFP, we wanted to learn what this organization has done to support her through this journey.  Marsha said “I can sum this up with one word, friendships”.  She is able to speak to her support group members about concerns she may have regarding her symptoms or even just a quick question.

By Kate Fiorianti | June 18, 2021

Calcium and Vitamin D are nutrients that are an important part to a healthy diet, but do they play a role in PD management?

Studies have found that a deficiency in serum levels of Vitamin D is common among approximately half of individuals living with PD. In addition, lower levels of serum Vitamin D is consistent with an increased incidence of falls in those with and without PD. The correlation between lower Vitamin D and increased motor symptom severity has been one of the highest relational findings between Vitamin D and PD. However, while studies are seeing these associations, there is inconsistent evidence in the role Vitamin D supplementation plays in people with PD and symptom improvement.  In studies that have seen positive symptom management, still further research is needed to find the proper level of supplementation for optimal results; current studies are finding a bell curve among supplemental doses and outcomes, showing that over more isn’t always better.

There have been studies which found Vitamin D supplementation to improve non-motor symptoms such as depression and insomnia, but these studies were largely conducted in populations of individuals without PD. Additional research needs to be done to focus on the specific relationship between Vitamin D supplementation and PD.

Currently the evidence is inconclusive that supplementation will improve symptoms of PD, but the role of Vitamin D remains important in the absorption of Calcium for bone health so even if no additional benefits are seen in symptoms associated with PD, receiving adequate Vitamin D and Calcium can help keep bone strong and reduce the risk of fractures associated with falls.

Recommended amounts for Calcium intake:

• Healthy adults between the ages of 19 and 50 should aim for 1000 milligrams (mg) calcium per day.
• Older adults (especially women after menopause) need more calcium, because bones lose calcium as we age. After age 50, healthy adults should get 1,200 mg calcium per day.

Sources of Calcium include:

• Milk and dairy products such as yogurt
• Almonds
• Greens ie: mustard, collard, and kale
• Fortified foods such as orange juice and cereals
• Supplements

Recommended amounts for Vitamin D intake:

• Men and Women (19 – 70 years): 600 IU each day or 15 mcg each day.
• Men and Women (71 years and older): 800 IU each day or 20 mcg each day.

Vitamin D can be obtained from various sources including:

• Sunlight – 10 – 15 minutes several times per week on exposed arms and legs
• Fatty fish such as rainbow trout and salmon
• Mushrooms
• Fortified foods such as milk and orange juice
• Supplements

Always check with your doctor before adding a supplement to your regime to learn of any potential side effects. As with all other symptom management, results vary by person based on a variety of factors, so continue to do what works best for you.

If you are interested in helping further research between Osteoporosis (which directly correlates with Calcium & Vitamin D) & Parkinson’s,  Join the Study with the team at the Vanderbilt Movement Disorders Clinic.

By Kate Fiorianti | June 9, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Follow Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s on Facebook: @PetersonFoundation

For the third year the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s will host their annual Expo Navigating the Parkinson’s Path: Insights and Information for Improved Living. The half-day event, designed to educate, engage and empower the Parkinson’s community, will be held on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at Brentwood Baptist Church. The organization will also provide a virtual platform for individuals unable to attend the event in person.

This year the Expo’s keynote speakers include Dr. Peter Hedera, M.D. Ph.d  University of Louisville, Dr. Thomas Davis, Vice Chair, Research; Division Chief, Movement Disorders Professor Neurology Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and Dr. William Petrie, MD Professor of Clinical Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

“This annual event allows the Parkinson’s Community throughout Middle Tennessee the opportunity to raise awareness around the diagnosis and provide education to individuals living with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, friends and family.” states Brent Peterson, Founder and Board Chair of the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s. Thanks to the generous donations from our sponsors and the support provided from our Parkinson’s Foundation grant, this event will be free of charge. The organization does require advance registration, for more information on tickets visit www.petersonfoundationforparkinsons.org.

Founded in 2009, the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s is a non-profit with a mission to support and enhance lives of people with Parkinson’s, their care partners, and their families to achieve their highest possible quality of life through awareness, education, and programs within a caring community.

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If you would like more information about the Peterson foundation for Parkinson’s, please call Debbie Lowenthal at or email at info@petersonforparkinsons.org.

By Kate Fiorianti | June 2, 2021

“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” -George Bernard Shaw

Enjoying a meal is a simple pleasure in life. When we cook and eat, we use many complex motor skills without thinking. For someone living with Parkinson’s preparing or enjoying a meal may become challenging, frustrating, or even embarrassing if you struggle with tremors, rigidity, balance, coordination, dysphagia and other symptoms.

There are plenty of kitchen tools specifically designed for Parkinson’s patients that can make cooking and eating with Parkinson’s easier and more enjoyable. Below are a few of our suggestions.

• Weighted utensils help steady your hand, keeping food on your utensil as it journeys from your plate to your mouth.
• Get gadgets with big, cushioned handles such as a potato peeler, spatula or even spice grinders and more. The larger grip will also help steady tremors while in use. You may also want to consider grip foam tubing that can be added to your existing utensils.
• Consider ditching the knife and use manual or electric vegetable choppers or food processers to chop, slice, and dice your food.
• Not ready to ditch the knife and cutting board? Look into an adaptive cutting board that has built-up sides and non-slip backing to keep items in place while cutting.
• Look for pots and dishware with suction cups at the bottom to stick to the counter and table.
• Using a straw can reduce the need to pick up and hold a cup, assisting with grip and tremors.

These are only a few suggestions of kitchen gadgets to help make cooking and eating easier for individuals living with Parkinson’s. Visit your local home goods store or visit Amazon to find more Parkinson’s must-have kitchen gadgets.

These links are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by PFP of any of the products, services or opinions of the corporation or organization or individual.

By Kate Fiorianti | April 28, 2021

Exercise is an important part of anyone living a healthy lifestyle. For people living with Parkinson’s Disease exercise is medicine! Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity is an essential component to maintaining balance, mobility, and activities of daily life for Parkinson’s patients. Studies have linked exercise to a reduced risk of Parkinson’s and slower progression.

There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to exercise. The type of activities you do depends on your symptoms and challenges. However, according to the UCSF – Parkinson’s Disease Clinic and Research Center aerobic exercises and those that challenge an individual to change tempo, activity, or direction (known as “random practice” exercises) are beneficial to Parkinson’s patients. Types of exercises that do this include:

• Dancing
• Yoga
• Tai Chi
• Sports (ping pong, golf, tennis)

Everyone should exercise more, whether or not they have Parkinson’s. So go grab some friends and get started today! The Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s works with local organizations to help you get moving including our Rock Steady Boxing Groups, Movement for PD and the Therapy Gym. Click here to find a group near you. Be sure to pick an exercise you enjoy and remember that consistency is key!! Always consult your neurologist and primary care doctor before starting any exercise routine.

By Kate Fiorianti | March 25, 2021

April is Parkinson’s Awareness month. This month is all about raising awareness about Parkinson’s and the available resources developed to make life better for people living with Parkinson’s, their care partners, family members and friends.

Did you Know?

April was chosen as Parkinson’s Awareness month to honor James Parkinson and his discoveries. Dr. Parkinson was a neurologist who published a paper in 1817 “An Essay on the Shaking Palsy”. The disease was later named after Dr. Parkinson many years after getting noticed by the medical community. Read the full essay here

The red tulip is the symbol of Parkinson’s Disease. This red tulip was developed by J.W.S. Van der Wereld, a Dutch horticulturist who had Parkinson’s disease. He dedicated and named this tulip for James Parkinson.

There is no standard diagnostic test for Parkinson’s. Many individuals living with Parkinson’s are not diagnosed for several months if not years after noticing their first symptom.

The cause is unknown. Genetics cause about 10 to 15 percent of all Parkinson’s. The other 85 to 90 percent of cases are classified as sporadic (or occasional). Although there is no cure, treatment options vary and include medications, surgery and lifestyle modifications.

Want to know more?

There are a number of great resources on Parkinson’s Disease, and you can learn in a lot of different ways.

DOWNLOADABLE DOCUMENTS

The Parkinson’s Handbook

Published by the American Parkinson Disease Association, 2019

This 48 page handbook provides information about Parkinson’s along with symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Every Victory Counts

Published by the Davis Phinney Foundation, 2019

People living with Parkinson’s, their care partners and families, and friends of those living with Parkinson’s want reliable and practical information that will help them improve their quality of life today and every day.

PODCAST:

Parkinson’s: Substantial Matters

Every other Tuesday, The Parkinson’s Foundation brings you a new episode of Substantial Matters: Life and Science of Parkinson’s. Host Dan Keller, PhD, interviews Parkinson’s experts to highlight the treatments and techniques that can help you live a better life now, as well as the research that can bring a better tomorrow. Episodes focus on a range of topics relevant to your daily life, including new levodopa delivery methods, exercise, clinical trials, nutrition and more!

The Parkinson’s Podcast

The Parkinson’s Podcast™ is produced by the Davis Phinney Foundation and covers topics ranging from Parkinson’s basics to how to talk to kids and families about Parkinson’s to new topics in the field like palliative care and much more.

By Kate Fiorianti | March 10, 2021

In February 2019, the Peterson Painters was established. The Peterson Painters is a creative art support group for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners. Lead by program coordinator, Gail Torrence, the Peterson Painters provides a nurturing space where participants learn about various artists, techniques and partake in monthly activities.

The Peterson Painters not only enjoy making art but enjoy sharing their pieces with the community. In April 2019 some of the group painted red tulip bookmarks in honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month and their collaborative art projects were displayed at the Franklin Art Crawl in October 2019. “Every month I look forward to seeing everyone in this group and catching up. We are helping the brain make new connections through learning new things, and having fun doing it. I am thankful for the support from PFP and providing this opportunity to those living with Parkinson’s and their care partners.” stated Gail Torrence. In addition to watercolor paintings, the painters are dabbling with other art media such as oil pastels, transparent film, and sharpie paints.

The Painters have met in-person every month in 2021 after a long absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During their January class they learned about French artist, Henri Matisse, followed by Marc Chagall in February. The group is learning about artists, styles of art, and art media, but being able to meet in person provides invaluable support from all the participants. An art support group can be beneficial for those living with Parkinson’s as well as for care partners.  For more information on Peterson Painters contact info@petersonforparkinsons.org.

Art-making can be used to address specific symptoms of Parkinson’s.

• Tremor: Nearly 70% of people living with Parkinson’s experience tremors at some point during their diagnosis. These tremors can worsen with stress, by relaxing one can reduce or soothe tremors. When focusing on a process (art) and not the problem or outcome it enables the central nervous system to calm and lessen the tremor.
• Freezing: Some people with Parkinson’s experience the temporary, involuntary ability to move, called freezing. When focusing on art, the movements are more deliberate, shifting less from every day “autopilot” movements and help decrease the likelihood of freezing.
• Impaired Speech: Art making allows individuals the opportunity to express their feelings and thoughts through a creative outlet, increasing self-esteem for patients experiencing speech problems.
• Isolation and Depression: Depression is a very common symptom of Parkinson’s and the social and emotional connections one forms by sharing a safe, creative space are invaluable for combating isolation and depression.

Click here to view more Peterson Painters photos

By Kate Fiorianti | February 25, 2021

When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s (PD), he/she is usually able to continue to provide self-care for some time.  However, since Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder, over time the person will need more and more assistance.  Often someone close to the person with Parkinson’s will step in to help out.  Usually this is a spouse or adult child, but it can a sibling, parent, friend, even ex-spouse.

As the person with Parkinson’s becomes more dependent on the primary care partner, the burden or stress on the care partner increases.  In addition to joining a Support Group the resources listed here will help you understand what to expect as a Parkinson’s care partner and how to look after your own needs so your health is not impacted by care partner stress.

Downloadable Documents

Becoming a Care Partner

Published by the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, 2018

This two-page educational supplement (PDF) offers tips on being a care partner for someone with Parkinson’s disease and taking care of yourself. Included is a list of online resources, including individuals and agencies useful to families managing long term illness.

Caring and Coping

Published by the National Parkinson Foundation (Now the Parkinson’s Foundation), 2018

This 176-page comprehensive guide (PDF) for care partners of people with Parkinson’s may be helpful at any stage.  There are “Tip sheets” with pointers from every day care to travel concerns.  And there are “Worksheets” to prepare for medical appointments, keep track of medications on a scheduling sheet, maintain a symptoms diary, and preparing to interview and trained hired care partners.

You, Your Loved One and Parkinson’s Disease

By Lonnie Ali and the Michael J. Fox Foundation.  Published by the Michael J. Fox Foundation

In these four pages (PDF), originally published in Reader’s Digest, Lonnie Ali and the Michael J. Fox Foundation offer advice about the impact of Parkinson’s disease on relationships and how best to balance caring for a family member and oneself.

Parkinson’s Care Partners: Rewriting the Rule Book

Published by the Davis Phinney Foundation, 2019

This 9-page digital booklet (PDF) walks you through writing your personal rule book for living well with Parkinson’s as a Parkinson’s care partner.  Having a rule book allows you to, “reset your relationship with your person with Parkinson’s; define decision making and focus on the well-being of yourself and your person with Parkinson’s; helps you identify and clarify challenges, wishes and expectations, and help you avoid feelings of anger or guilt that arise out of lack of clarity.”

Podcasts & Webinars

Advice for Parkinson’s Care Partners

By the Davis Phinney Foundation, October 24, 2018

In this 24-minute podcast, Kelsey Phinney interviews her mom, Connie Carpenter Phinney, about being a Parkinson’s care partner for over 18 years.  Kelsey asks Connie several questions, including how Davis was diagnosed; how the couple told their young children; how life changed for their family; how Connie cares for herself and communicates her needs to Davis; what household changes were made for safety the well-being of both Connie and Davis; how to cope with the good days and bad days; and how Connie and Davis care for their marriage, despite Parkinson’s.

Ask the MD: Caregiving and Parkinson’s

By the Michael J. Fox Foundation, October 23, 2015

Movement disorder specialist Rachel Dolhun, MD, packs dozens of practical tips on caring for yourself and your loved one with Parkinson’s in this 3.5-minute video.

Being a PD Care Partner

By the American Parkinson Disease Association, October 19, 2020

In this installment of Dr. Gilbert Hosts, the featured guest is Lianna Marie, RN, whose mother had Parkinson’s disease.  Lianna shares a few tips to make Parkinson’s caregiving easier, then answers several questions about Parkinson’s caregiving over the course of an hour.

Care Partners of People with Parkinson’s Disease

By the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation (Now the Parkinson’s Foundation), November 20, 2012

This 70-minute webinar (audio and slides) addresses the health risks of caregiving and specific strategies for looking after one’s health as a care partner through stress management techniques.

By Kate Fiorianti | February 16, 2021

Many of our support group members have been asking a lot of questions about COVID-19, the COVID-19 vaccine, and patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). While living with Parkinson’s does not put you at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19, it does make it harder to recover if you contract it. PFP is here to support you through these uncertain times and provide resources to answer many of your questions.

The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society released their official vaccine statement, recommending individuals living with Parkinson’s and their care givers to obtain the vaccine as soon as it is readily available. the However, it is important for you to speak with your doctor to see if the vaccine is right for you.

Tennessee COVID-19 Information

Tennessee health care providers are now distributing COVID-19 vaccinations to Tennesseans across the state. Tennessee’s phased approach to administering COVID-19 vaccines is based on individual’s risk and age. For the most up to date information on vaccines and locations you can visit https://covid19.tn.gov/.

If you know someone that is in the age group to receive the vaccine but does not have a way to sign up for it, please reach out to them to see if you can be of help. We continue to hear that there is vaccine that is going to waste because people are not signing up.  We also know that some of the elderly in the rural areas do not have access to computers or internet to sign up.  These are the people that need our help.

Avoid Vaccine Scams

As COVID-19 vaccine distribution continues, you must be vigilant about potential scams. Below are signs of potential scams:

• You are asked to pack out of pocket to receive the vaccine.
• You are asked to pay to put your name of a vaccine waiting list.
• Vaccine advertisements through social media platforms, email, telephone calls from unsolicited/unknown sources.

And NEVER give out your personal information to unknown sources.

Parkinson’s & The Vaccine

Earlier this year, The Parkinson’s Foundation hosted a Facebook Live event featuring Dr. Michael S. Okun. He answered some of the community’s most pressing questions about the vaccine. Watch the video below:

https://youtu.be/SoqS6yBREKY

By Kate Fiorianti | February 8, 2021

Brent and Tami began their journey with Parkinson’s in 2002, when Brent was first diagnosed. At that time, he was the Assistant Head Coach for the Nashville Predators and decided to keep his diagnosis a secret. It was not until 2004, when the Petersons decided to announce Brent’s diagnosis.

As a public figure, Brent wanted to provide support to others in the Middle Tennessee area fighting this disease and in 2009 Brent and Tami founded the Peterson for Parkinson’s Foundation. When asked about how PFP has impacted his life Brent said “My wife and I have been able to meet with many wonderful people in the Parkinson’s community. We also have had great support from our friends and family. The most important thing that we have found is our director, Debbie Lowenthall, who has supported us from the very beginning along with her husband Jay.”

In 2011, several years after continuing to coach the Nashville hockey team, Brent underwent a four-part procedure known as deep brain stimulation (DBS). Brent still needs to take medication after undergoing DBS, but has seen a reduction of his PD symptoms. Now he says his current symptoms are rigidity, slow movements and small tremors. “I still have trouble shaving and getting dressed.” Brent stated.

Brent and Tami continue to stay active in the PFP community attending meetings and participating in the annual golf tournament.

To learn more about Brent’s journey, check out his book “My Toughest Face Off”.