If you are young and have Parkinson's disease, you are not alone. There are thousands of young adults in the United States and thousands more throughout the world who are living with Parkonson's disease and tackling the challenges of career, parenting and pursuing goal for their future.

The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) is here for you. We welcome you to the APDA Young Parkinson's Information and Referral Center which was established to provide you with educational and supportive resources directed toward your special needs and concerns.

We understand that, as a young-onset Parkinsonian, you may have special concerns, including:
• personal relationships
• family, friends
• physical concerns
• psychological/emotional issues career issues & financial planning

• sexuality concerns
• medical research

  We are committed to educating and encouraging the individual and his/her family and friends.

   

• The Young Parkinson's Handbook: A Guide for Patients and Families; as well as booklets on diet, exercise, nutrition and a variety of other topics and issues relevant to the younger patient

• Young Parkinson's Newsletter, published three times a year

• Referrals to physicians and services throughout the U.S. Resources include financial consulting, social work, medical research trials and more

• Nationwide support group referrals

• Assistance in establishing a young-onset Parkinson's support group

• Person to Person Program providing correspondence or telephone contact with other young adults with PD

• Library of books/videotapes for loan

• Information Line with helpful staff to answer your questions

• Young Parkinson's website with links to other PD resources

• Network of APDA Information & Referral Centers across the U.S.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder of the brain related to a depletion of a neurotransmitter called dopamine. PD strikes people of all ages and ethnic groups.

The Center is staffed with hands-on, pro-active professionals committed to serving you and your family.

Susan Reese, RN, LCSW, is Coordinator of the Information & Referral Center. Susan is a registered nurse and a clinical social worker who can answer questions regarding your physical and psychological concerns or direct you to a wealth of helpful resources.

Michael Rezak, MD, Ph.D., is Medical Director of the Information & Referral Center. He is a neurologist and movement disorders specialist. Dr. Rezak is Director of the Movement Disorders Functional Neurosurgery Program at the Glenbrook and Evanston Hospitals in Illinois. Dr. Rezak is also on the faculty of Northwestern University School of Medicine.