Framingham, MA, May, 19, 2024 – The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) MA Chapter is hosting its annual Optimism Walk event in Framingham, as part of a nationwide initiative to raise awareness and vital funds for the Parkinson’s disease (PD) community. The local walk is set to take place on May 19 at Bowditch Field, and promises to be an inspiring day of community, support, and optimism. Registration is open now.

The Optimism Walk series is a cornerstone of APDA’s efforts to empower individuals living with PD and their families while advancing research towards better treatments and ultimately a cure. By participating in the Walk, attendees not only show solidarity with those affected by Parkinson’s but also contribute to the essential resources and programs provided by APDA to the local PD community. There are approximately one million people living with Parkinson’s disease in the United States – 20,000 of which are right here in Massachusetts.

The APDA MA Optimism Walk is a family-friendly event that offers a short walk of up to 3 miles (distance is optional) and other activities including educational opportunities, raffles, sponsor activities, pizza and ice cream, music and most importantly, the chance to bond with others who are similarly connected. It is perfect for people with PD, their friends, family, coworkers and care partners – anyone who wants to step up and help put an end to this disease.

Registration is free and open to all. Participants are encouraged to form teams, fundraise, and spread awareness leading up to the Walk. Fundraising efforts are crucial in supporting APDA’s mission to provide the support, education, and research that will help everyone impacted by Parkinson’s disease live life to the fullest, and as such, there are rewards for anyone fundraising $100 or more. Funds raised help fuel APDA MA Chapter programs and resources such as our community grant program, Information & Referral Center at Boston University Medical Campus, and the approximately 50 support groups we offer across the state.

“With a new Parkinson’s disease diagnosis every six minutes, PD affects millions of individuals and families across the country,” says Emma Kenney, Director of Development, APDA MA Chapter. “Events like the APDA Optimism Walk are instrumental not only in rallying support for our critical work, but also in forging a sense of community and camaraderie that is so crucial for people living with PD.”

APDA MA is pleased to announce Alex Yen, Ph.D. from Newton, MA, as the recipient of the 2024 APDA MA Shawn Thornton Service Award. he award is presented to an individual who demonstrates outstanding service, dedication, care and/or volunteerism in support of those living with Parkinson disease. Alex has been an active volunteer for the Chapter since 2007 and a member of the board and Chapter Treasurer since 2010. Alex’s work with the APDA MA was inspired by his father, who lived with Parkinson’s disease. Alex is an Associate Professor of Accounting, as well as Chair of the Department of Accounting & Taxation at Stonehill College. APDA MA greatly appreciates the tireless work that Alex provides including budget review, grant allocation, and essential strategic planning to deliver our mission.

The goal of the APDA MA Optimism Walk is to continue working in collaboration with the community to help those with PD and their caregivers live life to the fullest. Alex is an incredible member of the APDA Board, ensuring that we efficiently manage our funds to achieve our goals of raising awareness of Parkinson’s and supporting those effected by the disease. He will be honored at the 2024 APDA MA Optimism Walk during the opening ceremony.

“We greatly appreciate Alex’s support and expertise,” shares Kristin Stapleton, Board President of APDA MA Chapter. “His dedicated efforts have not gone unnoticed. Thanks to Alex’s years of service, our chapter has positively impacted the lives of countless individuals impacted by PD”. To register for the APDA MA Optimism Walk, or to learn more about how to get involved, please visit www.apdaparkinson.org/ma or call 617-634-2497.

The APDA MA Chapter offers a wide range of Parkinson’s disease programs, resources, education, and support. To learn more, visit apdaparkinson.org/ma, email apdama@apdaparkinson.org or call 617-638-8466.

About APDA: The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) is a nationwide grassroots network dedicated to fighting Parkinson’s disease (PD) and works tirelessly to help the more than one million people in the US with PD live life to the fullest in the face of this chronic, neurological disorder. Founded in 1961, APDA has raised and invested more than $252 million to provide outstanding patient services and educational programs, elevate public awareness about the disease, and support research designed to unlock the mysteries of PD and ultimately put an end to this disease. To join us in the fight against Parkinson’s disease and to learn more about the support APDA provides nationally through our network of Chapters and Information & Referral (I&R) Centers, as well as our national Research Program and Centers for Advanced Research, please visit www.apdaparkinson.org.