Local Support Group Brings Parkinson’s Quilt to Chester County for April’s Parkinson’s Awareness Month

WHAT:  In recognition of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, visit a local display of the Parkinson’s Quilt. This display features Block 17, which includes quilt panels created by members of the West Chester Parkinson’s Support Group, in West Chester, PA.  The Parkinson’s Quilt is an initiative of the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation (PDF), which comprises quilt panels created by 600 people from around the world.  The Quilt aims to raise awareness of the impact that the disease has on people living with Parkinson’s along with their care partners and friends, and on the continued urgency to find a cure.

WHO:  Mary Jo Baldino, R.N., facilitator of the West Chester Parkinson’s Support Group and Neighborhood Health, in collaboration with the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation® (PDF®). PDF supports the scientific research and ideas that will improve the lives and futures of people who are touched by Parkinson’s disease.  Since its founding in 1957, PDF has invested more than $142 million in research, education and advocacy programs.

WHY: As many as one million Americans live with Parkinson's disease, a chronic and progressive movement disorder. Although research is promising, there is currently no cure. Each year, the community recognizes April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month.   “It’s really inspirational for people to see the stories that are told through the Parkinson’s Quilt. Our support group is really proud to share their work to inspire the community during Parkinson’s Awareness Month,” says Ms. Baldino.  

WHEN and WHERE:  Saturday, April 5 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Parkinson’s Workshop at Freedom Village at Brandywine on 15 Freedom Blvd. in Coatesville, PA; and Wednesday, April 23 to Wednesday, April 30 from 1:15 PM to 2:15 PM at the West Chester Area Senior Center on 530 East Union Street in West Chester.

HOW:  For more information about attending one of these Awareness events, contact Mary Jo Baldino at (610) 696-6511, ext. 113. Both events are open to people living with Parkinson’s, their families, friends and health care professionals. Pre- registration is required for the educational workshop.

To bring the Parkinson’s Quilt to your community, contact the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation (PDF) at (800) 457-6676, info@pdf.org, or visit www.pdf.org/quilt.