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Tuesday, 13 November 2007 10:33

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group Meeting

The local Parkinson’s disease support group will host a presentation by Barry Smith, Coordinator of the Mother Lode Office of Disability Resource Agency for Independent Living  or DRAIL. According to the National Parkinson Foundation, the disease is a brain disorder where certain brain cells die or become impaired. Normally, these cells produce the chemical dopamine, which allows smooth, coordinated movement.  When about 80 percent of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, the symptoms of Parkinson's appear, including tremors, slowness, rigidity, poor balance, small and cramped handwriting, muffled speech and depression.

According to the foundation, 1.5 million Americans have Parkinson's disease. The Amador County Parkinson’s Disease and neurological disorder support group "Living well with Parkinson’s...What's shakin'?' will meet on Thursday, November 15 from 10 am – 12 noon at the Calvary Chapel Patio Building in Pine Grove. DRAIL Coordinator Barry Smith will present a program detailing the many services offered to empower people with disabilities to achieve personal goals through independence and choice. DRAIL promotes and implements the concept of independent living by aiding persons with disabilities to obtain the tools they need to be self-sufficient. Patients, caregivers and family members of anyone with a disability are invited and encouraged to attend to learn about the many services available in Amador County through this agency. For questions, contact Sarah Johnson, Director, proACTIVE Parkinson’s project, at 296.2575.

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