Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately the dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain. Symptoms generally develop slowly over the years. The progression of symptoms is often a bit different from one person to another due to the diversity of the disease. People with PD may experience:

• Tremor(s), mainly at rest and described as pill rolling tremor in hands; other forms of tremor are possible
• Slowness and paucity of movement (called bradykinesia and hypokinesia)
• Limb stiffness (rigidity)
• Gait and balance problems (postural instability)
• Along with a host of non-motor issues, such as depression, anxiety, loss of smell, and gastrointestinal problems, to name a few.

The Brevard Parkinson’s Alliance (BPA) serves all of Brevard County and is a 501(c) (3 ) non-profit organization. Donations, sponsorships, and fundraisers enable us to provide funding for respite care (for care partners), transportation for those with Parkinson’s to fitness and other Parkinson’s events, and other Parkinson-related education and awareness.

“One mission…serve those challenged with Parkinson’s disease, their caregivers, and families”.

Our non-profit is guided by a Board of Advisors, composed of volunteers with Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s care partners and associated professionals. Their passion is helping those with Parkinson’s Disease. We are fortunate to have support groups in Viera, Palm Bay, West Melbourne, and Cocoa. Individuals with Parkinson’s, and their families do not have to go on this journey alone. There is plenty of help and support in our community.

If you would like to learn more, please join our next lunch and learn on Friday, August 23rd, at 11:30 AM at Christ Episcopal Church in Suntree. The topic will be Sleep and Self-Care presented by Dr. Deepika Aneja from Viera Pulmonology. For more information or to contact us with questions call 321-345-1031.

BAKERS
Enjoy baking and sharing your fresh baked good with others? Join our newly forming baking group where you can bake for our club as well as for service to others. Please contact Joyce V: 321-773-7414 [email protected]

SPECIAL EVENTS
Having a special event takes a lot of planning and a lot of work being
done in the background. We need assistance both with the planning
and working the day of the event. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Becky: 321-773-6458 [email protected]

DAYTIME CRIBBAGE
Like cribbage or would like to learn but don’t want to drive at night?
We are currently looking for people interested in playing. Please contact Ron: 321-468-1693

QUILTING
Like quilting or interested in learning? We are currently looking for people to participate in a Quilts of Valor project. If you don’t already know how to quilt, you can learn from Helen – our knowledgeable
coordinator. Interested parties, please contact Becky: 321-773-6458
[email protected]

GRILLERS & SMOKERS
If you enjoy grilling or smoking food, we are looking for those like- minded people to join this group. You would be grilling and/or smoking for our club, and service to others, but mostly for fun! If you are interested, please contact Becky: 321-773-6458
[email protected]

NEEDLE CRAFT
If you are interested in knitting, crochet or any kind of needlecraft, the club is looking for like minded people to start a group or class. If you would like to participate, please contact Joyce S: [email protected]

Our 55+ Club meets regularly on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 10:30 am in the DRS kitchen area (no meeting in July). All are welcome! Every month we review our past activities, plan for the future, and listen to reports from our program chairs. Our club is very busy with all the activities we offer – programs to keep you entertained, healthy and informed. A lot of planning and thought is necessary in order that we may present these programs to our members. Your input is always welcome!

If you can’t make all or any of these monthly meetings we understand but trust you will attend our Annual Meeting at the Civic Center on December 12th. At that time we will give a summary of the year, introduce our Board members, chairpersons and other volunteers – and of course our valuable newsletter sponsors will be recognized.

We are planning a very special dinner for our members and friends at the Annual Meeting. You will be amazed at how we can offer this gourmet meal at such a low cost! Our Holiday Dinner will be catered by Emerson Krausse, chef and owner of the Banana River Cafe’ and graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Emerson has graciously agreed to work with our Club in order to keep the costs down but the quality still very high!

We are excited about the future, we hope you enjoy our programs but be sure to let us know if you have any thoughts or ideas you feel may add to or improve our Club and please be sure to put December 12th on your calendar now!

Enjoy your Summer!
Jill Blakeway ~ 321-773-2080 ~ [email protected]