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Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system that affects over one million Americans. The gradual degeneration of certain brain cells causes a reduction in the chemical “dopamine.” The decrease in dopamine can cause resting tremor on one side of the body, generalized slowness of movement, stiffness of limbs, gait or balance problems, and/or other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. For more information, check these sites.
American Parkinsons Disease Association (APDA)
APDA is a support organization that provides education, counseling, assistance and referrals throughout the United States. The association sponsors 65 chapters and more than 800 support groups. The web site offers information about the association and its services.
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
The web site of the noted “Spin City” actor’s new foundation to raise funds for Parkinson’s research. There’s not much information about the disorder here, but the spiffy site is likely to draw interest among potential donors due to recent widespread publicity. The Foundation has merged with the former Parkinson’s Action Network.
The Mulligan Foundation
The Mulligan Foundation is a non-profit organization which was founded “to provide medical research and quality of life information on Parkinson’s disease to individuals affected by the disease, their families, friends, and caregivers.” The somewhat limited web site includes information about the organization and links to other PD sites.
The National Parkinson Foundation
Basic information about Parkinson’s disease, including clinical studies, news, support groups, caregiver information, an excellent on-line library, links, and more.
National Parkinson’s Foundation – Parkinson’s Disease Caregiver Information
This site focuses on the needs of caregivers. It includes PD information, frequently asked questions, a discussion forum, and related resources.
Parkinson’s Disease: Hope Through Research
A good overview from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Also available in Spanish.
Parkinson’s Disease Foundation (PDF)
The web site of a national, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting research into the causes and cure of Parkinson’s disease, and for better symptomatic treatments. The Foundation acts as a liaison between physician/scientist and the lay community via educational materials, referrals, a brain bank, and other resources. Its web site offers information about the disease and the organization, PD news, an “ask the expert” section, and more.
Related Subjects
Movement Disorders
Neurological Disorders
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