Each year, Parkinson’s organisations and individuals across the world observe 11 April as World Parkinson’s Day. This year’s World Parkinson’s Day is a landmark anniversary, as the date marks 200 years since Parkinson’s was recognised as a health condition.
The #UniteforParkinsons campaign was developed by two charities, the European Parkinson’s Disease Association (EPDA – EPF member) and Parkinson’s UK. Both organisations aim to position World Parkinson’s Day as a platform to grow an active global Parkinson’s community that can collectively advocate for change in the treatment and management of the condition.
The campaign is aimed at Parkinson’s stakeholders across the world, including:
- People affected by Parkinson’s (patients, carers and family members)
- local, national, regional and international Parkinson’s organisations
- charity supporters and foundations
- healthcare professionals
- members of the research community
- policymakers and decision-makers (both national and EU)
- pharmaceutical industry companies.
Already supported by dozens of Parkinson’s organisations around the world, this campaign needs the support of as many countries, individuals and organisations as possible. By speaking together with one voice on 11 April, patient organisations will unite across the world to make it clear that 200 years without a cure is too long.
To this end, the campaign is calling for everyone to use the hashtag #UniteForParkinsons on 11 April – to share their experiences, campaigns and best practice, as well as their hopes and plans for the future.
To find out more about how you can support the campaign – both online and offline – and access a number of campaign resources, visit www.worldparkinsonsday.com and/or email worldpdday@epda.eu.com. Resources are available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Welsh.
Make sure you visit www.parkinsonslife.eu – the official #UniteForParkinsons media partner – in the lead up to 11 April to get inspired and stay up to date with all the latest campaign news.
Extra information
About Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is a progressive, chronic and complex neurodegenerative disease that has no cure. It affects all aspects of daily living and is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s. There are currently more than 1.2 million people living with Parkinson’s in Europe and this number is forecast to double by 2030, primarily as a result of the ageing population. The total estimated annual cost of Parkinson’s is €13.9 billion, and this figure will increase as the number of people with Parkinson’s in Europe continues to grow.
About the EPDA
The EPDA is the only European Parkinson’s umbrella association. It represents national Parkinson’s associations in nearly 30 countries across Europe and advocates for the rights and needs of more than 1.2 million people with Parkinson’s and their families. The EPDA’s vision is to enable all people with Parkinson’s to live a full life while supporting the search for a cure. Visit www.epda.eu.com for more information.
About Parkinson’s UK
Parkinson’s UK is the UK’s leading charity supporting those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s through cutting-edge research, information, support and campaigning.
About Parkinson’s Life
Parkinson’s Life (www.parkinsonslife.eu) is an online ‘lifestyle’ magazine for people affected by Parkinson’s disease. It is the official media partner for the #UniteForParkinsons campaign.
