On April 20, the U.S. Senate officially recognized April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month, bringing attention to Parkinson’s disease policy priorities and the needs of patients.

The resolution was introduced by the Senate co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Parkinson’s Disease, Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA).

“Every day Parkinson’s disease greatly impacts millions of individuals in the United States who are caregivers, family members, and friends of individuals with Parkinson’s disease,” the resolution states. “Developing more effective treatments for Parkinson’s disease and providing access to quality care to individuals with Parkinson’s disease requires increased research, education, and community support services.”

“We recognize Parkinson’s Awareness Month to honor patients and their loved ones. We must continue to support medical research that can lead to breakthrough treatments and improve quality of care,” said Sen. Stabenow. “I applaud the advocates working to find a cure for this disease.”

Sen. Isakson, who announced his own Parkinson’s diagnosis last summer, said, “This Parkinson’s Awareness Month holds special meaning for me. I’m honored to have the opportunity to take action on behalf of ‎the millions impacted by this disease, of which I am one. I am proud to see this recognition of Parkinson’s disease pass the Senate. Our advocacy community is strong, and together we can continue to advance Parkinson’s research to find a cure.”

Contact your elected representatives and encourage them to support important Parkinson’s policy initiatives.  

To learn more about community Parkinson’s policy priorities, visit michaeljfox.org/policy and read our white paper on the topic.