MJFF launches 2025 nationwide event series ‘Parkinson’s IQ + You’
Free event series seeks to educate, empower people affected by Parkinson's
The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) has launched this year’s “Parkinson’s IQ + You,” a series of in-person events to help patients and care partners effectively navigate the challenges of Parkinson’s disease.
Launched in 2019, the free event series seeks to educate people about the disease, including information about building a comprehensive care team, the latest treatments, and participating in clinical studies.
The kick-off is scheduled for Orlando, Florida, on March 15, with registration open. Several events will follow in other cities across the U.S., including Minneapolis, Minnesota, on May 17; Nashville, Tennessee, on Sept. 6; and Honolulu, Hawaii, on Oct. 4.
Building meaningful connections
“The Foundation’s Parkinson’s IQ + You series allows people and families to build meaningful connections and better understand their role in today’s latest breakthroughs and empower them on their journey,” Stephanie Paddock, MJFF’s vice president of community fundraising and events, said in a press release.
Parkinson’s IQ + You will be hosted by Allie Signorelli, a member of the MJFF patient council and advocate, who was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease at the age of 47. Interactive sessions will be led by movement disorder specialists, health professionals, and biomedical researchers, as well as people living with Parkinson’s and caregivers.
“Managing Parkinson’s often presents new questions for those of us living with the disease, as well as for our loved ones,” Signorelli said. “With recent breakthroughs and milestones moving the field forward, Parkinson’s IQ + You offers people in the community, including me and my family, an opportunity to not only learn, but also be part of today’s momentum.”
“Building Your Parkinson’s Care Team” sessions will discuss how to make the most of a doctor’s appointment, the advantages of seeing a movement disorder specialist, and how to build a comprehensive care team.
In “Exploring the Latest in Parkinson’s Research,” panelists will share the latest advancements in Parkinson’s research and the current therapeutic pipeline.
Finally, in “Turning Education into Action,” local community members will talk about strategies to navigate the disease, either by participating in research, support groups, fundraising for research and treatments, or advocating.
During the day, local resources, including healthcare providers from movement disorder centers, physical and speech therapists, clinical trial teams, and representatives from support and advocacy groups will be gathered at the Parkinson’s Partner Expo.
The program runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes breakfast, a boxed lunch, and refreshments during the day. It will offer full accessibility, including assisted hearing devices, Spanish-language translation of programming and materials, and access to travel accommodations, such as ground transportation vouchers.
“As someone who has cared for my own family members with Parkinson’s and related diseases, I’ve been witness to the power community can play in supporting a loved one’s journey,” said Lisbeth Garces, Spanish community liaison of Parkinson’s Association of San Diego and a 2024 Parkinson’s IQ + You event panelist. “Events like Parkinson’s IQ + You help people and families better understand available resources, support, and our role in advancing toward a world with better treatments and a cure.”
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