In this special Power Over Parkinson’s interview, we sit down with Gary Griffiths—a U.S. military veteran, former firefighter, and a dedicated voice in the Parkinson’s disease (PD) community. Gary shares his powerful story of a life spent in service, from protecting his country to protecting his community, and now advocating for those living with Parkinson’s. Gary opens up about, his decades of work in the military and fire service, his Parkinson’s diagnosis and the challenges that followed, how he transformed adversity into positive purpose, and his ongoing advocacy, awareness efforts, and support for our mission at Power Over Parkinson’s His story is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering positivity and commitment to helping others.

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In our latest installment of POP Profiles, Power Over Parkinson’s President, Margaret Preston, sat down with Dr. George Ackerman, founder of Together for Sharon, a grassroots Parkinson’s awareness initiative dedicated to honoring his late mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman. The conversation explored Dr. Ackerman’s deeply personal journey—from his mother’s Parkinson’s diagnosis to his mission to educate, connect, and empower families affected by the disease. He shared insights into how Together for Sharon uses storytelling and community outreach to amplify voices within the Parkinson’s community, while also advocating for greater research support and public understanding of the disease. Throughout the interview, themes of hope, advocacy, and connection emerged. Dr. Ackerman emphasized the importance of uniting organizations like Power Over Parkinson’s and Together for Sharon to strengthen awareness efforts and improve the lives of those living with Parkinson’s.

This inspiring conversation serves as a reminder that through shared stories and collaboration, we can continue to build a stronger, more supportive Parkinson’s community.

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Dr. Annie Killoran, Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry and the University of Iowa, joins us as we discuss why understanding Parkinson’s Disease stages is helpful for both clinicians and patients. We cover how staging the disease can better help in identifying and delivering targeted therapies as well as how it can aide in the acceptance of the disease and its many and varied characteristics. Dr. Killoran also takes us through general treatment options, touches on current research, and stresses why exercise is a critical component of disease management. This discussion offers a terrific overview of an array of important Parkinson’s topics.

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