There are many ways to help others, one of the easiest is attending a support group, whether virtual or in person. While most people normally join to find support for their own needs, the group also provides a common understating that we are not in this alone. I know that when I attended my first PD group, it was the many smiling faces around the table that brought a sense of belonging to my soul. The guest speakers were just icing on the cake.

Another way to help others is to participate in research as a member of a study group. Many programs are for People with Parkinson’s only, but the Michael J. Fox Foundation has a program called “Fox Insight” and they need people without the disease as well. I have been actively participating in this project for several years now and I hope that I may be making a small difference for someone else down the line.

Finally, reach out and be a friend to someone else. Listen to their story and share some of yours. You never know what struggles they might be facing nor the impact you can have until you open your heart and give it a chance. Our journey as CarePartners can be lonely if the only person we interact with is our Partners, find someone new to share it with today.

For more information on research programs visit “Your Role in Research”  on the Michael J. Fox website or “Patient Engagement” through the Parkinson’s Foundation.