MnDRIVE Brain Conditions recently participated in the Annual Minnesota Spring Parkinson’s Symposium, an educational and community-focused event jointly hosted by the University of Minnesota Udall Center, the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), and the Parkinson’s Foundation. Held at North Heights Church in Arden Hills, the symposium brought together individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, and community organizations for a day of learning, support, and connection.
The free event featured expert presentations covering Parkinson’s disease myths, non-motor symptoms, caregiving perspectives, and personal storytelling from members of the Parkinson’s community. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit exhibitor and resource tables, connect with advocacy organizations, and learn more about research and clinical opportunities available throughout Minnesota.
This year’s symposium featured outstanding presentations from:
- Dr. Jerrold Vitek (Udall Center of Excellence, MnDRIVE Brain Conditions, University of Minnesota Neurology)
- Drs. Paul Tuite & Natalie Heinrich (M Health Fairview) — Myths and Misconceptions of Parkinson’s Disease
- Dr. Allyson Connor (Allina Health) — Non-Motor Symptoms: How Parkinson’s Disease affects all body systems
- Joan Hlas, MSW, LISW (Struthers Parkinson’s Center) — Caregiving as a Gift: How to Thrive Without a Gift Receipt
- Becky Southwick, RN (M Health Fairview) — Facilitated panel discussion on building a support system
MnDRIVE Brain Conditions shared a resource table with M Health Fairview alongside the University of Minnesota Udall Center team, helping connect attendees with information about ongoing Parkinson’s disease research, neuromodulation initiatives, and community engagement opportunities. Throughout the day, faculty and staff members spoke with participants about current programs and the importance of advancing collaborative brain health research across Minnesota.
The symposium created a welcoming environment for meaningful conversations between researchers, healthcare providers, patients, and families. Events like these continue to play an important role in strengthening partnerships between the scientific and Parkinson’s communities while helping individuals access educational resources and support networks.
In addition to the presentations and discussions, attendees were able to explore community resources and engage directly with organizations dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by Parkinson’s disease. The strong turnout highlighted the continued need for education, advocacy, and research collaboration within the Parkinson’s community.
MnDRIVE Brain Conditions is proud to support educational outreach efforts like the Minnesota Spring Parkinson’s Symposium and remains committed to advancing research, fostering collaboration, and building connections that improve care and quality of life for individuals living with neurological disorders.
A huge shout out of gratitude to all of the organizers, sponsors, and presenters!
