Rochester Parkinson Network

09/08/2026

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, RPN is hosting a workshop at the Irondequoit library from 11 AM to 12:30 PM. The output from the event will help the entire Network. The RPN Board will be in attendance to get your input on the questions we cannot answer without your help. As thought starters:
- What and how can RPN deliver differently or better?
- What can/should RPN do more of?
Is there a better location for events? Better time of day?
- What information would be more helpful?
- Are there topics you would like to hear more about or more frequently?
Since this session will not be recorded, your in-person participation is most important. You can register at Rocparknet.org/events. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to have your voice heard! We look forward to seeing you there and receiving your feedback!

06/14/2026

RPN's June 20, 2026 Education event brings Dr. Kristopher Kimmell, Neurosurgeon with Rochester Regional Health and Jahveed Shirzad, Therapy Consultant with Boston Scientific together to discuss Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). If you're still confused about or interested in another perspective about this potentially life-changing PD therapy, you won't want to miss this.

The event will be held at the Irondequoit library from 11:00 AM until 12:30 PM. This event, like all of RPN's education events, is free to attend but we ask that you go to RocParkNet.org/events.
We look forward to seeing you there!

05/06/2026

We’ve all heard at some point that attitude is everything. That is true no matter what we face in life, Parkinson disease included. On Saturday, May 16 at 11:00 AM at the Irondequoit library, we host an inspiring speaker who is the human embodiment of positive thinking, Dr. Sara Whittingham. Sara is a former US Air Force Flight Surgeon, anesthesiologist, Ironman triathlete, 2026 NYC Marathon finisher, author and since 2020, a person living with Parkinson disease.

Sara is the author of “Oh Crap! It’s Parkinson’s: A Rebel’s Guide to Taking back Your Life”. As Dr. Whittingham says, “The shock, fear, grief and uncertainty can feel overwhelming” following a Parkinson diagnosis. In this powerful and practical presentation, Sara shares how she moved through that emotional aftershock and began rebuilding her life with intention.

This event is free but registration is required. Visit Rocparknet.org/events to register. We look forward to seeing you there!

05/03/2026

04/29/2026

04/28/2026

RPN is partnering with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and the Rochester City Ballet for an evening of music and dance on Friday, May 8th! A certified Parkinson’s Disease dance instructor will guide participants through gentle movement to support balance, flexibility, and confidence. This event is located at the Rochester City Ballet and is completely free! The program starts at 5:30 PM, but doors open at 5 PM. All are welcome!

04/22/2026

🌎 Happy Earth Day! 🌎

Here are some Earth Day actions you can take today:

💚 Reduce pesticide exposure: Opt for organic food and limit your use of household and garden chemicals.

💚 Support regulation: Advocate for the banning of toxic chemicals, including TCE and paraquat, which is already banned in over 50 countries.

💚 Plant-forward diet: Adopt a diet focused on plants to support the environment and manage Parkinson’s symptoms.

💚 Water safety: Consider using water filters if industrial runoff is a concern.

How will you celebrate Earth Day?

04/22/2026

Apathy, a lack of motivation or interest, affects nearly 40% of people living with Parkinson’s. Apathy can make everyday tasks harder and can impact effective PD management.

Be kind to yourself— apathy is not laziness. With support and self-love, it is possible to rediscover joy. RPN is here to support you every step of the way.

04/17/2026

Don’t forget about the craft and vendor show tomorrow from 10am-4pm! We hope to see you there! 💚

Save the date! We are excited to promote a craft and vendor show to benefit RPN. The show is on April 18th from 10am-4pm at the Valley Oak Event Center/Quality Inn in Geneseo. The address is 4242 Lakeville Road, Geneseo NY 14454. This is an event featuring local crafters and vendors, with seasonal decor, treats, 50/50 raffles, raffle baskets, and more! This is a wonderful opportunity to support RPN. We hope to see you there!

04/16/2026

Did you know that women with Parkinson’s may face unique challenges, including delayed diagnosis, different symptoms, and lower-quality healthcare?

While some progress has been made to better understand how PD impacts women, there is a need for increased research to provide women with the best possible care and support.

Women with PD can improve care and quality of life by seeking expert care, joining a research study to help bridge the gap in the PD field, reporting all symptoms and side effects, and finding a support system. Let’s work together to bridge the gap and provide care for everyone with Parkinson’s!