One primary goal is awareness of a cure for Parkinson’s disease. I believe we will be closer to a cure through advocacy and awareness; however, it is not always easy. Most days, I sit and try to brainstorm ways to achieve a reach through the media.

I have written 15 letters on several occasions to media outlets such as television, including national stations and local. It is nearly impossible to gain a response and coverage in this critical area of bringing attention to PD. Is it because viewers are unaware, or is it insufficient for their ratings? I am not sure, but when I see the stories the media shares and the lack of information about Parkinson’s, it is shocking. 

As one of the fastest-growing neurological disorders worldwide, you may think the coverage would be much more effective and efficient. However, that is not the case, especially for local advocates. I have attended many local walks and events to raise awareness, but the media does not exist. 

We need a cure, but the key is teaching the world, and the media, celebrities, and all of us joining together can make a difference, but we are far from the needed media support. Unless a specific reporter is affected by PD through their family, responses are the noise of only crickets, which is heartbreaking. The amount of time media spends on stories that include violence and stories that do not apply to the regular everyday person or families and those affected by PD is shocking to me. 

We must reach all media outlets to gain attention for this critical movement and advance toward a cure and end of PD.

NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, and every avenue and venue need to come to the table and help save lives. Their devotion to politics and crime stories is unmatchable; imagine if they spent a few moments ensuring coverage on PD awareness, research, and so many communities touched PD would be a game changer but as of today, in my experience, the lack of care and response is draining, frustrating and shocking. 

However, no matter what, we all must join hands, continue to call and write your local media from newspapers, television, and social media, and ensure we all are talking about, and pushing anyone we meet of the importance and urgency for a PD cure. Awareness through local, city and national attention would change the path and speed of a cure may be at all our doorsteps.