22 Fox Focus | Education
On the Road Again : Parkinson ’ s IQ + You
By Christina Destro
A hotel ballroom was buzzing in Boston , Massachusetts as nearly 300 community members gathered in May for the first inperson Parkinson ’ s IQ + You since 2020 . The educational event offered patients , families and care partners the chance to reconnect and learn about the latest research and resources .
The series of free in-person events , which began in 2019 , is returning to cities around the country , with visits to the New York Tri-state area and San Francisco Bay Area planned this fall . Past Parkinson ’ s IQ + You events in Atlanta , Georgia ; Phoenix , Arizona ; and Southern California have brought together more than 2,300 attendees .
Hosted by MJFF , the events kick off with an educational session on what it means to build a Parkinson ’ s care team . A person with PD and their care partner , movement disorder specialist , physical therapist and speech therapist share practical tips for navigating the disease and making the most of visits with specialists . Attendees can also hear from experts on a research panel about the latest scientific advancements and the value of research participation .
At every Parkinson ’ s IQ + You event , participants can connect with more than 30 groups at the Partner Expo , including national PD organizations and local support groups , care options and exercise programs . Foundation staff help enroll volunteers in research , including MJFF ’ s landmark Parkinson ’ s Progression Markers Initiative study .
Attendees in Boston credited the program and panelists with providing valuable information to help with the diverse challenges of living with Parkinson ’ s .
“ Having so many resources in one place was very valuable ,” said Kristine Faubert , 58 , Weymouth , Massachusetts . “ The panelists were very knowledgeable , and the question-andanswer period was facilitated so well . It was a wonderful event .”
For more information and to register for upcoming Parkinson ’ s IQ + You events , please visit
michaeljfox . org / pdiq .