World Parkinson’s Day
Apr 11, 2024
Did you know? In 2018, Neil Diamond decided to retire from his extraordinary concert touring career, following his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD).
In honor of World Parkinson’s Awareness Day (April 11, 2024), we’ve compiled some FAQs about PD:
What is Parkinson’s disease?
- Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement. It occurs when certain nerve cells (neurons) in the brain gradually break down or die. These neurons produce dopamine, a chemical messenger responsible for transmitting signals within the brain that control movement. As dopamine levels drop, individuals with Parkinson’s may experience tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
- Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can vary from person to person and may include:
- Tremors, usually starting in a limb, often on one side of the body
- Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
- Muscle stiffness or rigidity
- Impaired balance and coordination
- Changes in speech and writing (slurring, monotone voice, small handwriting)
- Rigid facial expression (reduced blinking, blank stare)
- Sleep disturbances
- Cognitive impairment and mood disorders in later stages
What causes Parkinson’s disease?
- The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Researchers have identified certain genes associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s, but most cases are sporadic. Environmental factors such as exposure to toxins or certain pesticides may also play a role in triggering the disease.
Is there a cure for Parkinson’s disease?
- Currently, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, there are treatments available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include medications to increase dopamine levels in the brain, physical therapy to improve mobility and flexibility, speech therapy to address communication difficulties, and surgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) in advanced cases.
How can I support someone with Parkinson’s disease?
- If you have a loved one with Parkinson’s disease, there are many ways you can offer support:
- Educate yourself about the disease and its symptoms to better understand what your loved one is experiencing.
- Be patient and empathetic, as Parkinson’s can be challenging both physically and emotionally.
- Encourage regular exercise, which can help improve mobility and overall well-being.
- Assist with daily tasks or transportation when needed.
- Provide emotional support and a listening ear.
On this World Parkinson’s Day, let’s raise awareness, show support for those living with Parkinson’s disease, and continue to strive for better treatments and ultimately, a cure. And let’s also celebrate the enduring legacy of artists like Neil Diamond, whose music continues to inspire and uplift us despite the challenges they face.
P.S. Last year, A Beautiful Noise partnered with the Parkinson’s Foundation to raise money and to raise awareness in honor of Neil Diamond, as well as one of our producers, Adam Reimer’s, mother.
After the show on April 11, 2023, the cast and co-producers presented a check for $500,000 to the Parkinson’s Foundation. According to the Foundation, “The funds raised will help the Foundation continue its critical works of making life better for people with PD by providing increased access to high-quality care, research opportunities and critical resources.” You can read more about it here.
WATCH: The Broadway cast of A Beautiful Noise presents a gift to the Parkinson’s community.