Parkinson VoiceEnhancing Lives, Connecting Communities

Marijuana & Parkinson’s DiseaseBy Joseph Jankovic, MD, Parkinson’s Disease Center & Movement Disorders Clinic

Party in the GalleryFeatured Artist

Continued on page 2

2 3Marijuana & Parkinson’s DiseaseDr. Jankovic

Colorado Support Groups

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Summer 2015Volume 7, Issue 2

There is growing interest in marijuana (cannabis) and cannabinoid-based drugs in the treatment of a variety of neurologic conditions including Parkinson’s disease. Nearly every day I am asked by my patients what I think about marijuana for medical use. Many patients relate their own first-hand experience with marijuana. One patient recently related an anecdote how “Blue Dragon,” one of many strains of marijuana, helped her with her Parkinson’s disease symptoms.

Others describe similar benefits from other strains, such as Blue Pearl, Bubba Kush, Brainstorm Haze, Cherry Bomb, Haze Skunk, Jamaican Pear, Kahuna and Green Love Potion. Unfortunately, these anecdotes, while intriguing, are just that and there is little scientific evidence to support these observations. This is one reason why I was invited to briefly summarize a recent article my colleagues and I published reviewing the basic science and clinical research on the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders (1).

Marijuana, also referred to as cannabis, consists of over 60 different chemicals that act on various parts of the brain, modulating the so-called endocannabinoid system which is involved in motor function. There is a huge variety of marijuana, but there are essentially two

cannabis species, called sativa and indica. Sativa strains are higher in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which produce more sense of euphoria (“high”), whereas indica strains have more cannabidiol (CBD) and are more sedating and relaxing, and may be helpful in treating nausea and pain. While most people are familiar with smoked marijuana, edible cannabis is increasingly used for both recreational and medical purposes. In contrast to inhaled marijuana, the response to edibles may be delayed by several hours and may be less predictable. An unwitting user may not experience any effects until an hour or two after ingesting parts of cannabis fruit or chocolate bars at which time they may note the onset of side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, visual hallucinations, drowsiness, unsteadiness and slowing of time perception.

Sally Pridonoff West has an artistic background, is an educator of art history and multi-media art and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2006. She says, “I feel that my creative art enables me to focus in a more positive direction rather than on my disabilities.”

When talking about her inspiration for creating Cherries Jubilee (image below) Sally stated, “I have always felt that ‘Life is a bowl full of cherries!’ One day I saw another artist painting a typical bowl of cherries and decided to do my own version. I like using richer-than-life colors, the subject something different from the usual, with a flare to the design and on the unpredictable side; a bit of elegance! I am honored that the Association has selected ‘Cherries Jubilee’ as this year’s signature art piece - it has been an all time favorite of many and this was the first time I considered giving it away. I am so happy to donate it to such a wonderful organization.”

Parkinson’s Gift of Creativity

For Your Parkinson’sToolkit

Marijuana & Parkinson’s Disease from page 1

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Take the Freeze Out of Parkinson’sMany individuals living with Parkinson’s disease may experience a sudden freezing in their gait. To overcome freezing episodes, be mindful and deliberate. The following are a few tricks to avoid or overcome a freezing incident:

• Freezingismorecommoninnarroworcrowdedsituations.Whenapproachingacrowdedarealetotherspassbeforemovingforward.

• Ratherthantryingtopivottoovercomefreezing,trytowalkinadeliberatecircle.

• Createorlocatestepping“cues.”Internalcuestotakeastepmaynotwork.Topromptyourselftotakeastep,createand/orlocateexternalcuessuch as identifying a line or mark to step over, creating a rhythmic beat or song to step to.

• Practicesteppingwhennotexperiencingafreezingepisode.Attemptadeliberate,exaggeratedstep,asifmovinginslowmotion.When experiencing a freezing episode, try to put the practice into action.

• Whenfreezingstartstosetinyoushouldstop,relaxandtakeadeepbreath.Thenbegintoshiftyourweightfromonefoottotheotheruntilyou can take one big, complete step.

• Staybalanced.Avoidreachingorleaningforwardtowalk.Thesemovementsmaycauseyoutofallforwardbecauseyourweightwillbeonthe balls of your feet. If you must stop yourself, reach to the side or slightly backwards.

The best way to overcome freezing is through practice, practice, practice. Engage in exercise that helps to make your movement more automatic. The more automaticyourmovementis,themorelikelyyouaretoavoidand/orovercomefreezing.Considerthefollowing:

• Listentomusicwhentakingawalkordoinghousework.Synchronizeyourgaitandmovementswiththebeat.

• EnrollinadanceclasssuchastheParkinsonAssociation’sRhythm&Graceclass.

• Workonyourhand-eyecoordinationandbalancebyjoiningtheParkinsonAssociation’sPowerPunchatParkinson’sboxingclass.

If you are experiencing significant gait and balance issues, consult a physical therapist for additional exercises. Consider using a walker to further ensure your safety and continued mobility. Not just any walker will do. To overcome freezing, a walker with a laser light or rhythmic sound is best. Good, stable walkers are expensive. Before purchasing one, consider borrowing a U-Step walker from the Parkinson Association. The best antidote to freezing is moving. Exercise will keep you on the move automatically. Practice moving and have fun while practicing.

Using animal models of Parkinson’s disease, researchers have shown that cannabis may have neuroprotective effects. This suggests that it may possibly slow down the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Indeed, in 2003, the U.S. Health and Human Services was granted U.S. Patent 6630507, which lists the use of cannabinoids found within the cannabis sativa plant as useful in certain neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. The exact mechanism by which cannabis exerts neuroprotection is not known but it may serve as a potent antioxidant. It may also have some anti-inflammatory effects and reduce toxicity from glutamate, a toxic neurotransmitter.

Some but not all animal studies suggest that cannabinoids may actually worsen motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (by inhibiting the release of dopamine). The animal studies also show that cannabinoids possibly improve involuntary movements caused by L-dopa (levodopa-related dyskinesias). When cannabis drugs, however, were tested in patients with

Parkinson’s disease, no clear benefits could be demonstrated. Indeed the American Academy of Neurology systematically evaluated the published clinical evidence and concluded that cannabis-based drugs are “probably ineffective in treating levodopa-induced dyskinesias in Parkinson’s disease or tremor” (2). Although cannabinoid-based drugs, such as nabilone, dronabinol, Epidiolex™, and Sativex®, are now approved for some neurologic conditions, none have been approved for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

In conclusion, despite the widespread publicity about the medical benefits of marijuana, further research is needed to better understand the potential role of this class of drugs in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and related movement disorders. Many individuals and groups have advocated removing cannabis from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, the most tightly restricted category reserved for drugs which have “no currently accepted medical use” and a high potential for abuse, including heroin, LSD,

ecstasy, and peyote to Schedule II or III class drugs with less abuse potential. Such re-classification would likely facilitate further research into neurological uses of cannabis. Until additional credible evidence is provided, marijuana cannot be recommended for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease or levodopa-related dyskinesia.

References: 1. Kluger B, Triolo P, Jones W, Jankovic J. The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for movement disorders. Mov Disord 2015;30:313-27.2. Koppel BS, Brust JC, Fife T, et al. Systematic review: efficacy and safety of medical marijuana in selected neurologic disorders: report of the Guideline Development Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology 2014;82:1556-1563.

This article was originally published in the May 2015 edition of HAPS Happenings. It is reprinted, in its entirety, with permission from Houston Area Parkinson Society.

Support Groups ForCarePartnerspecificSupportGroups,pleasevisitpage4.ForSupportGroupsinWyoming&Nebraska,pleasevisitwww.ParkinsonRockies.org.FormoreinformationonSupportGrouplocationsandtimes,pleasecall(303)830-1839

ALAMOSA 3rd Wednesday • 4:00pmThe Bridge3407CarrollSt.

ARVADA3rd Thursday • 1:00pmCommunityRecreationCenterofApex6842WadsworthBlvd.

AURORA2nd Tuesday • 1:00pmLife Care Center of Aurora 14101E.EvansAve.

BOULDER3rd Tuesday • 10:00amEast Boulder Senior Center5660 Sioux Dr.

BRUSHQuarterly MeetingsContact the Parkinson AssociationEben Ezer Lutheran Care Center122HospitalRd.

BROOMFIELD1st Tuesday • 10:30amBroomfield Community Center280SpaderWay

BUENA VISTA1st Saturday of ODD months10:00am127 Hill St.

CEDAREDGE2nd & 4th Wednesday • 9:30amCedaredge Assembly of God1596SW9thSt.

CENTENNIALYoung Onset GroupContact the Parkinson Association

2nd Thursday • 10:30amHollyCreekFellowshipHall5500 E. Peakview Ave.

CHERRY HILLS VILLAGEDeep Brain Stimulation 2nd Friday • 1:00pmBethany Lutheran Church4500E.HampdenAve.,GreatHall

COLORADO SPRINGS2nd Saturday • 10:00amFirstPresbyterianChurch105 N. Weber St.

3rd Saturday • 10:00am Woodland Park Library218E.MidlandAve.,3rdfloor,BoardRm.

CORTEZ3rd Monday • 10:30amTrinity Lutheran Church208N.DoloresRd.

DENVERRecently Diagnosed (1-3 years)3rd Tuesday • 11:30am Christ Episcopal Church2950S.UniversityBlvd.,BarnesHall

2nd Thursday • 6:30pmBethany Lutheran Church4500E.HampdenAve.,Room315

4th Saturday • 9:30amJack A. Vickers Boys and Girls Club3333 Holly St.

DURANGO3rd Thursday • 1:00pm FirstUnitedMethodistChurch2917AspenDr.

EAGLE VALLEY4th Thursday • 5:00pmTrinity Church of Edwards90LariatLoop

ENGLEWOOD MSA/PSP/CBD Support Group2nd Friday • 10:00am Johnson Adult Day Center3444S.EmersonSt.

ESTES PARK3rd Tuesday • 2:00pm US Bank Building363 E. Elkhorn Ave.

EVERGREEN/CONIFER/MORRISON1st Friday • 1:00pmContact the Parkinson Association

FORT COLLINS1st Wednesday • 10:30amFt.CollinsSeniorCenter1200RaintreeDr.

GRAND JUNCTION1st Wednesday • 3:30pmFirstChristianChurch1326 N. 1st St.

GREELEY4th Thursday • 10:00amHopePool&PhysicalTherapyCenter278028thAve.

HIGHLANDS RANCH4th Tuesday • 10:00amHighlandsRanchLibrary9292RidgelineBlvd.

3rd Friday • 10:00amWind Crest Community 3235MillVistaRd.

LAFAYETTE4th Tuesday • 2:30pmExempla Good Samaritan Medical Center200 Exempla Cr. Check front desk for room

LAKEWOOD4th Wednesday • 4:00pmAtria Inn at Lakewood555 S. Pierce St.

LITTLETONLast Wednesday • 10:00amMorning Star Senior Living5344S.KiplingPkwy.

LONGMONT2nd Wednesday • 10:00amLongs Peak United Methodist Church1421ElmhurstDr.

1st Monday after the 2nd Wednesday • 6:00pmLongmont Senior Center910LongsPeakAve.

LOUISVILLELast Tuesday • 2:00pmBalfourRetirementCommunity1855PlazaDr.,WellshireCenter

LOVELANDMSA/PSP/CBD 2nd Friday • 1:00pmNorthernColoradoRehabHospital4401UnionSt.

MONTROSELast Monday • 2:00pmMontrose Memorial Hospital800S.ThirdSt.,AcuteRehabUnit

PARKER2nd Tuesday • 10:00am Life Care Center of Stonegate 15720 Garden Plaza Dr.

PUEBLO2nd Tuesday • 10:00am YMCA Campus3200E.SpauldingAve.,CommunityRoom

SALIDA1st Saturday of EVEN months 10:00am205 G St.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS2nd Wednesday • 4:30pmUnited Methodist ChurchOak&8thSt.

SUMMIT COUNTY3rd Friday • 10:00amContact the Parkinson Association

WESTMINSTER1st Monday • 1:30pm CovenantVillageRetirementCommunity9153YarrowSt.,EvergreenRoom

WHEAT RIDGE3rd Wednesday (Sept-May) • 10:00amApplewood Baptist Church11200 W. 32nd Ave.

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Care Partner Support GroupsBROOMFIELDFriday after the 1st Tuesday of every OTHER month10:30amBroomfield Community Center 280SpaderWay

COLORADOSPRINGSEastside Caregivers3rd Friday • 1:30pm Care&ShareBuilding2605 Preamble Pt.

DENVER4th Wednesday • 6:30pm(Nov. and Dec. meets on 2nd Wednesday)ScheitlerRecreationCenter5031W.46thAve.

ENGLEWOODMSA/PSP/CBD4th Friday • 10:00amJohnson Adult Day Center3444S.EmersonSt.

LAKEWOOD3rd Friday • 12:00pmInnovAge Cody Center8405W.AlamedaAve.

LONGMONT1st Tuesday • 11:30amPerkinsRestaurant2051 Main St.

STEAMBOATSPRINGS3rd Thursday • 4:00pmContact the Parkinson Association

Fall Educational EventsWatchmailboxesforinvitesandformoreinformationvisitwww.ParkinsonRockies.orgEducationaleventsareFREE,butregistrationisrequiredforallevents.

Ahead of the CurveSeptember

Home Adaptations | Parker Balance&Dizziness|DenverMetro

OctoberHow to Prep for Your Doctors Visit | Lakewood Know Your Meds | Denver MetroSex&Poop|Longmont

NovemberComplimentary Alternative Medicines | Boulder Home Adaptations | Evergreen Caring Conversations | Wheatridge

Chat with the (Parkinson’s) Pros • Rural EducationSeptember

NonMotor Symptoms | BrushOctober

CollaborativeCare|FortCollinsExercise for Parkinson’s | Steamboat Springs

NovemberMedications Overview | Pueblo

E3 Conference Educate • Empower • EnergizeOctober 9 • 8:30am – 3:30pm | Denver Marriott Tech Center, 4900 S. Syracuse St., Denver

TheParkinsonAssociationoftheRockiesisbringingtheParkinson’scommunitytogether to Educate, Empower and Energize through a number of topics that will include exercise, care partner collaboration, self-efficacy, fatigue and more. Plus, an inspiring and moving closing session with former NASA astronaut Richard“Rich”Clifford.

The third annual E3 Conference brings together individuals with Parkinson’s, their care partners and family members, as well as professionals who work with the Parkinson’s community to educate them with tips and tricks for living vibrant and healthy lives.

Conference Details: RegistrationisFREE,butrequired.Lunchwillbeprovided.Formoreinformationpleasevisitourwebsiteatwww.ParkinsonRockies.org/E3ConferenceToregister,pleasecontacttheParkinsonAssociation(303)830-1839|Info@ParkinsonRockies.org

Thanks to our E3 Conference Sponsors:

04Additional Sponsorship Opportunities Available

ContactMadisonHolland:(303)830-1839|MHolland@ParkinsonRockies.org

Energize Breakout Session Sponsor:

Exhibitor+ Sponsors: Exhibitors:

Generously supported through grant funding by:

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Parkinson Association ClassesThe Parkinson Association is pleased to offer the following exercise classes. A liability waiver from your doctor is required. There is a fee associated with each class. Not all classes meet every week. For class schedules or to register, please call (303) 830-1839 or email Info@ParkinsonRockies.org.

Singing & Voice Classes :Tremble ClefsValmont Community Church3262 61st St., BoulderContact the Parkinson Association

Good VibrationsThursday’s • 1:00 – 2:00pmLifeCare Center of Aurora14101E.EvansAve.,Aurora

LOUD for LIFEMonday’s • Afternoons OurFatherLutheranChurch6335S.HollySt.,Rm.300,CentennialContact(303)534-0324

Rhythm and Grace: Dance for PD®Monday’s • 12:00 - 1:15pmColorado Ballet1075SantaFeDr.,Denver

Power Punch for Parkinson’s Non-Contact BoxingWednesday’s • 10:00 - 11:15amDenverRedShield2915HighSt.,Denver

Saturday’s 10:00 - 11:15am 11:15 - 12:15pmDenverRedShield2915HighSt.,Denver

*More classes coming soon to Boulder

B.E.A.T. High IntensityTuesday’s •9:30-10:30amFitnessintheCity1212 Delaware St., Denver

Thursday’s • 4:00-5:00pm5700 W. 25th Ave, Edgewater

PAR for the Course ExerciseBalance & Strength ClassesHigher Intensity: for individuals early inthe diagnosis of Parkinson’s diseaseLow Intensity: for individuals who needassistance with mobility

Tuesday’s11:30am - 12:30pm, Higher Intensity12:30 - 1:30pm, Low IntensitySchlessman YMCA3901E.YaleAve.,Denver

Wednesday’s • 2:00 - 3:00pmSouthwest YMCA5181W.KenyonAve.,Denver

Thursday’s • 1:00 - 2:00pmAugustana Lutheran Church 5000 E. Alameda Ave., Denver

Yoga for Parkinson’sMonday’s • 1:40-2:40pmUniversity of Colorado, Stapleton Clinic3055RoslynSt.,1stFloor,Denver

Tuesday’s • 9:45-10:45amLittleton YMCA11 W. Dry Creek Ct., Littleton

Tuesday’s • 10:30 - 11:30amCherryCreekRetirementVillage14555E.HampdenAve.,Aurora

Wednesday’s11:00 - 12:00pm12:30-1:45pmScheitlerRecreationCenter5031W.46thAve.,Denver

Golfing for a Great CauseThree years ago a group of individuals got together to create an event to honor the life of their dear friend, Gary Bass. Gary’s passing was sudden, but the impact he made on the lives of his friends is everlasting. This group knew the best way to honor him would be by golfing - and with that and just a couple of months of preparation, the Gary Bass Memorial Golf Tournament was created. During preparations for their 2nd AnnualTournamenttheyaskedtheParkinsonAssociationoftheRockiestobetheircharitypartner.Wewere thrilled to be considered for this opportunity.

On Saturday, June 25th the 3rd Annual Gary Bass Memorial Golf Tournament was held at The Heritage Golf Course at Westmoor. A total of 27 foursomes took to the greens on a beautiful morning, to raise awareness ofParkinson’sdiseasewhilegolfingforagreatcause.Thisyear’sTournamentraisedover$6,940.ThesefundswilldirectlysupporttheprogramsandservicesprovidedbytheParkinsonAssociationoftheRockies,in memory of Gary Bass.

EachyearthisTournamentcontinuestogrowbyleapsandbounds.Fortwoyearsinarowtheeventhasdoubledintheamountoffundsraisedandnewfoursomes continue to join. This growth is due to the dedication and persistence of the individuals on the Gary Bass Memorial Golf Tournament Committee, as well as the support of The Heritage Golf Course and the participation from our community. We are deeply grateful to all of you for your commitment and contributions and we look forward to seeing you on the greens again next year.

We would also like to give special thanks to this year’s Tournament sponsors: Hole Sponsor

PREMIERHOME RESTORATION, INC

(720) 833-8718, 7105 W 44th Ave, Wheat Ridge, CO, 80033

Hole + Team SponsorsEvent Sponsor

James Andrade Susan Andrade

Sharad Atre ThePhyllisM.CoorsFoundation

Sandy Berkowitz’s 70th Birthday

Lyllian WendroffBlueSky Neurology

ActiveRXPaul N. Browne

MargaretFindleyCarol Sandy

Paul N. Browne’s Birthday Carol Sandy

Paul & Helen Browne’s 50th Wedding Anniversary

Carol Sandy

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Raymond Acsell Bernard&DeveraThorn

Albin Anderson Deanne ImataniJulie MullerWilliam Multhauf

Bob Bein Robert&BarbaraGuttsmann

Evva Peabody Berger Martin&DeborahBuckley

Harrison F. Bornmann, III RichardBornmannMarcella BuhrKenneth DeLucaDonna&DanGerlachTracy&DennisHuddlestonPeggyReedJacob&SandraSchlemmerFrederick&WandaShivelyRobert&PhyllisSwansonChris&SandyVogelNed&CharleneVogel

Norton Boslow Alice BarmatzShirley&SonnyBeckDerrick BoslowBarbara CarrRon&MichelleCatalanZeldaFriednashRobert&EstherGlickmanMark GoldsteinMimi&RonGossRobert&BarbaraGuttsmannDonald&Henny Kaufmann

George G. LoweSue LubeckJoe PellsTrudyRubinsonCynthia&IraShwartzMichelle Weissman

Viva Jean Bosshart Mary McGlade

Paul S. Clare Darryl DillJerry&JoyPate

Gene DeSalvo HaroldDubinski&PattiThornBernard&DeveraThorn

Simeon Franks Mary Weiland

Robert Friend Bernard&DeveraThorn

E.D. Gray Catherine G. Doyle

Patricia Groves William&PhyllisAndrewsLouiseFrostDushan&JewellSumonia

George A. Heldrich George Heldrich

Alfred Henke Shari&DwightStelling

Robert Hull Sr. Bob&DonnaHull

Shirlee Isaacson Visiting Angels

Clarence Robert Jacquinot Lonnie&PamelaColtrainLarry HandlingBruce&JudySwitalaDonald&JudyWard

Walter Karpel Tiffiany&RonOreskovichCoralie&BillStrasenburgh

Donna Kofman JeanDeFreece

Shirley Kohn Bernard&DeveraThorn

Hans Liebe RoswitaLiebe

Doug MacCallum MaryAlice&CecilHathaway

Janis Martin Ann BickEllen EganDarrell&DonnaMillerMiltonRasberryJulia West

Mark S. Miller Josh DinarJohn W ThielenRothDistributingCompany

Gunda Modly Ilona Modly Hogan

Robert Morauski Kathryn AdamsLois Byler-MorauskiGary&DorisFieldsCarolyn KruseVirginia MorelandGail&TerryRotruck

Dona Olderog Videll Nordmark

Roy Norman Peacock Alma Peacock

Betty Peterson Ken Peterson

Marilyn Pooley Morey&ShirleyMelnick

Helen Reierson RobertReierson

Jo Ann Roemer Monument Quilters

Elliott Rosenberg BarbaraFox

Betty Lou Rumpf Janet BishopTed&LindaCiavonneCatherine KalehuaweheSally&CharlesReamsDoug SampsonTherese M. Schott

John Shotton Rolf&JaneAsphaugHenry&SiouxBarrRegan&CorbinBrashearTim&PattiCaseyDebra&LouisCirilloRolf&JudyDercumGary&J.D.FreesePhil&BarbaraGibbsIrene HorineHelen LordPhyllis&GaryMartinezSusan&FrankMasonNils&SueNelsonAnne&JohnOjennesKathleen&JohnRadeyGary&JudyReidSpotswood M. ShottonRichardWallace

Barbara Siefert Paul&BonnieSiefert

William A. Slinkard Charles Chaves

Helga Sproul Gerritt&LoriEitelbachLori Eitelbach

Judy Svoboda Longmont Support Group

Susan Twomey Carol AtkinsGilbert&CarolDreilingDr. A. Ainsworth HagenKen&JoEllenKopatichSuePeck&DanielPoppKevin&LorraineShubaEdwin S. Small

Jacqueline Varra Vickie&ArthurArchuletaSharon BodenDonna BrattonGeorge Brown

Michael ChavezDenie ComptonCynthia DaughertyAdam&DonnaElnickiCherylFerrariTerri HarveyVicky HatcherLinda HinesVirginia HoyleAlan&ConnieKobzaEleanore KobzaWayne&LaurenKobzaCindy&LarryLosassoRobert&JoanLuxnerEleanor McKinleyGayle NicholsonFrankPateteAnne Marie PewterbaughBeverlyRamseyRonald&CherahlRossRosann&JamesSidesMichael&GeneVarraNancy J. VarraRonaldP.VarraWayne A. VarraDiamond G Concrete CompanyOnofrey&Hirschfeld,PCVarra CompaniesVista Management AssociatesWagnerEquipment

Maria Venegas Sandra CurtisRobertaHartfordAnne KotchMelinda LiBassiSally PaschkeElizabethRomigJoe&VeraVanderHorstFraserValleyPickleballFriends

Margery Young Lee&JaniceYoung

HONORS

(Contributions listed do not include those made through donations and/or registrations to the 2015 Vitality Walk –recognition of these gifts are promoted on the event website.)

Your thoughtfulness helps the Parkinson Association continue to provide services & support. The following gifts were received between February 1, 2015 – June 30, 2015

MEMORIALS

Nettie Burnstein Optomist Club

Barbara Carr’s Birthday Marilyn Boslow

Ken Coddington Optomist Club

Betty Davee Bob&BettyDavee

Doug & Carol Ford’s 50th Wedding Anniversary

Cherlyn BuschDavid & Sarah Graham

Keith&NanBottorffVerle Guthrie

Delores BatchelderTim Horton

Kendra HortonPeggy Talbot

Mike Jackson Nate&JenGustafson

John Jacquinot’s Redneck Ride Tony&JohnaCabreraRalph&MarilynShaw

Laura Johnson Bud&DebbiKiebler

Guy Kaskie’s 80th Birthday Curtis&DoloresVigil

George Lilley Wojteczko Snyder Group PC

Mari Lurie’s Birthday Lois London

Lee Mendel TheDenverFoundation

Doris Modly Charlotte Modly

Roger E. Oukrop Edna Paul

Thomas R. Paul Edna Paul

Essie Prlmutter’s Birthday Marilyn Boslow

Henry Prescott’s Cycle Sea to Sea for PD

Bob CannistraroDouglas&CarolFordGeorge Lilley

Greg Ritscher BrentL.Richards

Sandy Rothman Suzanne De Lucia

Barbara Sano Lori Eitelbach

Rick Schwartz Suzanne Schuelke

Barry Segal RobertSegal

Karen Shanno Bob&DonnaHull

Paul Schroder Marvin&ElinerSchroder

Marc Treihaft ActiveRX

Bill Vollbracht RandeYeager

Jack Warren Thomas&DanicaAnderson

Julia West’s Running for PD Timothy BrossartCheryl CampbellCarol Wright

Donations

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13th Annual Vitality Walk

Our volunteers are worth their weight in gold. They genuinely share their time and talents without any compensation and we cannot thank them enough. We are appreciative of the compassion they show to those we serve, as well as the dedication they have to making our programs and events successful. They are truly an inspiration and it is our honor to work with them.

We are fortunate to have the commitment of hundreds of volunteers annually. These volunteers serve on committees for events and programs to ensure that content is timely and important enhancements are made. They play a vital role in their community by serving as Support Group Leads. They give hours of their time at a multitude of programs and events to ensure they run smoothly and are successful. Our volunteers have supported us in endless amounts of administrative tasks, keeping our community informed and our office organized.

We want to say thank you to all our volunteers for all that they do; and we want to acknowledge that the growth and accomplishments the Parkinson AssociationoftheRockieshasexperiencedisgreatlydependentontheselflessservicetheyprovide.

IfyouareinterestedinlearningmoreaboutvolunteeropportunitieswiththeParkinsonAssociationoftheRockiespleasecontactEricaWrightatEWright@ParkinsonRockies.orgor(303)830-1839.

Volunteer Corner

The Parkinson Association’s 13th Annual Vitality Walk was the biggest and best Vitality Walk we have had thus far. This event is always an unforgettable experience and we are still in awe of the outpouring of support we have received from our community.

OnSunday,June7th,atotalof1,411registeredindividualsparticipatedon114teamstoenhanceliveswitheverystep.Ofthese,1,082walkedinWashPark,Denver;208walkedinSandstoneRanch,Longmont;and121ChosetoSnoozeandmadeitcount!Wealsohad87day-ofvolunteersand873othersmadeacontribution to the Vitality Walk – a grand total of 2,371 individuals, plus a number of furry four-legged friends, took giant steps together to create awareness of Parkinson’s disease!

We are also thrilled to announce that because of you and your support we exceeded our 2015 Vitality Walkfundraisinggoal;over$224,700wasraised!Wealsowanttoinformyouthat,foryetanotheryear,90centsofeverydollarraisedattheVitalityWalkdirectlyfundstheAssociation’sprogramsandserviceswhich support, strengthen and empower those living with Parkinson’s in our community.

Team Longmont Locomotion had the largest team with 77 registered members and were closely followedbyteamOhSnapwithKelly&Dyanawhohad60registeredmembers.However,teamOhSnap

participated as a Choose to Snooze team and hosted their own walkthroughouttheirHighlandsRanchneighborhoodandcounted over 120 walkers at their event.

TeamJacksonwasthetopfundraisingteam,bringingin$78,441.Team Power Punch at Parkinson’s was voted by KOOL 105 as 2015's Most Spirited Team, because they walked with spirit and pride, many of them wearing their boxing gloves!

Every step taken by someone with Parkinson’s shows their determination to live well with the disease. Every step taken by friends, families, neighbors and co-workers supports those individuals and families who are affected by Parkinson’s. Thank you to everyone who supported the 13th Annual Vitality Walk – you have enhanced lives with every step!

A Walk to Connect Communities and Enhance Lives

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Presenting Sponsors

Gold Level Sponsors

Silver Level Sponsors

Bronze Level Sponsors

Exhibitor Level Sponsors

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For Your Parkinson’s Toolkit

Portable Digital Voice Amplifier A portable voice amplifier can be used during those times that a person with Parkinson’s may have difficulty being heard. Mobility devices, like canes and walkers, help you move more safely and independently, so why not have a voice amplifier available as a “vocality” tool? A person with a weak voice from Parkinson’s disease may find using the amplifier allows their voice to be heard.

Formoreinformationortopurchaseaportable digital voice amplifier visit www.VoiceAerobicsDvd.com or call(941)204-1515.

Liftware Spoon Liftware is a stabilizing handle that comes with a selection of utensil attachments that include a soup spoon, everyday spoon and a fork all designed to help people with hand tremor eat more easily. An advanced sensor, motors and an onboard computer work to detect motion and automatically stabilizes and shakes 70% less than the hand. It works best for those with mild to moderate tremor. It enables you to worry less about spilling and focus more on enjoying your meal.

FormoreinformationortopurchaseaLiftwarevisitwww.LiftWare.comorcall(415)894-5438.

PillPack – Pharmacy Simplified People with Parkinson’s disease often have a large number of medications to manage. Sorting medications can be difficult and time consuming. PillPack, a new kind of pharmacy, simplifies the process of managing medications.

• Medications come organized in individual packs organized by date and time.

• Your PillPack is delivered to your door every 2 weeks. • The service comes with proactive refill management. Pharmacists

manage your refills, so you’ll never run out. • Pharmacistsareavailable24hoursadaytoansweryourquestions

via phone or email. • Packs can include prescribed and over-the-counter medications

and multivitamins.

There is no charge for PillPack beyond your standard 30-day co-pays. PillPack accepts most major insurance plans, including forms of Medicare Part D. There are no shipping, handling, or extra fees associated with switching to PillPack.

FormoreinformationaboutPillPackortoenrollvisitwww.PillPack.comorcall(855)745-5725.

SpeechEasyPD SpeechEasyPD is a tool which can be used to increase speech in those with Parkinson’s. The device is worn in one ear and similar in appearance to a hearing aid. It has been shown to help those with Parkinson’s increase their ability to communicate more effectively and confidently.SpeechEasyPDdeliversDelayedAuditoryFeedback(atimedelay)andFrequencyAlteredFeedback(achangeinpitch)tohelpaddress speech issues, specifically hesitation, repetition and clarity.

When using the time delay and a change in pitch, a person experiences a “choral speech effect.” Choral speech is people speaking together in unison; this effect can help lessen repetitions and hurried speech. By using the device and hearing oneself speak at a slight delay and change

in pitch, the brain perceives that as someone speaking along with you and creates the choral speech effect.

Formoreinformationortoschedule an appointment visit www.SpeechEasy.com.

Vibrating WatchA VibraLITE® vibration alarm watch is a discreet tool that can make keeping on track with your medications easier. With Parkinson’s disease, you have to take your medications on time and ‘on time’ means within a few minutes, many times one hour before meals (and at least two hours after meals) to work effectively. Vibrations on your wrist

alert you each time an alarm is activated. The alarm may also be set for audible if a caregiver also wants the reminder. Up to 12 daily alarms can be preset for specific times and will alert you each day without resetting.

Formoreinformationortopurchasevisitwww.GlobalAssistive.com.

Yampa Valley Support GroupBy Jeanne Upbin, Leader of the Yampa Valley Support Group

Get Out & Get Active for Parkinson’s

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Foundedin2012inSteamboatSprings,theYampaValleyParkinsonSupportNetwork(YVPSN)servesthegreaterYampaValleycommunity,southtoOakCreek, north to Baggs, WY and east to Hayden and Craig.

YVPSNismadeupofadynamicgroupofpeoplewhogathertoshareinformation,enjoygoodhumor,pushtheenvelopeinclassesandmaintaintheirqualityof life in this beautiful valley. Monthly support group meetings not only provide support with shared information, but also offer expert presenters including nutritionists, physical therapists, speech therapists and pharmacists. Care Partner meetings are held monthly as well.

Classes specific to people with Parkinson’s are readily available. Hour long yoga classes and exercise classes tailored for people with Parkinson’s are held twice a week. Classes include: balance, Tai Chi, water aerobics in the fall and Nordic ski instruction in the winter.

YVPSN meets socially with twice monthly breakfasts and billiard nights for men with Parkinson’s disease. Ladies with Parkinson’s disease organize other types of outings.

A “Parkie Slyders” event was held last winter at the Haymaker Nordic Center that included instruction and lunch for people with Parkinson’s and the entire community. There were over 200 attendees. We are hoping to hold this as an annual event in the future.

InMay,thegroupjoinedinthePushupsforParkinson’sChallengewiththeThursdayYogaclassparticipantsandtheFridayExerciseclassparticipantsfacingoff, together making a donation to the Parkinson Association to round off the Challenge. At the June YVSPN meeting, Lindsay Scott, PT delivered an on-target and informative presentation: “How Posture Can Improve Our Walking and Breathing”.

We feel fortunate to live in a community where we have so many resources and support to continue to live well with Parkinson’s and we invite anyone visiting Steamboat to take advantage of what our group offers.

ForinformationregardingclassesandmeetingspleasecontactJeanneUpbinatJeanneUpbin@Gmail.com

Once again a few of our special friends are hosting events in our community to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease and the Parkinson Association of the Rockies.TheproceedsfromtheseeventsalsoprovidecriticalfundingfortheAssociation’sprogramsandservices,whichdirectlyimpactthelivesofthoseliving with Parkinson’s in our community.

Please mark your calendars and join us as we get out in our community and get active for Parkinson’s awareness and support.

Redneck Ride for Parkinson’sSunday,August23rd|26MileBikeRidefromEstesParktoLovelandRegistration:Thereisnoentryfeetoparticipate,butparticipationislimitedtothefirst50registeredindividuals.However,therearenolimitsonhowmanypeople can come celebrate with us at the end of the ride, so please join us at 5:00pm at the Big Beaver Brewery. This event raises awareness of the great impactexercisehasonindividualswithParkinson’sdisease.AllfundsraisedarededicatedtoprovidescholarshipsfortheParkinsonAssociation’sexercise&activity classes to Coloradoans with Parkinson’s who are unable to afford them.

Colorado Courage 5K RunSaturday,August29th|CheesmanParkPre-EventRegistration:$30/Participant|Event-DayRegistration:$35/Participant.ForMoreInfo&toRegisterorDonate:www.ColoradoCourageRun.comDenver’s only run to show support of those living courageously with Parkinson’s. This is a family-friendly event, so bring your kids, strollers, dogs and friends to race, jog or walk the course!

The Science and Practice of “Speaking LOUD”By Lorraine Ramig, PhD, CCC-SLP & Cynthia Fox, PhD, CCC-SLP

Five Questions to Ask the Therapist : 1. How many LSVT LOUD clients have you treated?2. What are your typical outcomes?3.Doyouhaveafollow-up/maintenanceplanforyourclients?4.IsyourLSVTLOUDCertificationcurrent?5.DoyoudeliverthegoldstandarddosageofLSVTLOUD?(4daysaweekfor4weeks, individual 60 minute sessions, with daily homework and carryover assignments)

“If you don’t talk loud enough – people stop listening.” “If I have no voice, I have no life.”

ThesearedirectquotesfromtwoindividualswholivewithParkinson’sdisease.Theyreflectthedevastatingimpactthataspeechandvoicedisordercaninflictonthequalityofaperson’slife.

Researchshowsthat89percentofpeoplewithParkinson’sdiseaseexperiencespeechandvoicedisorders;includingsoftvoice,monotone,breathiness,hoarsevoicequalityandimprecisearticulation.Asaresult,peoplewithParkinson’sreportthattheyarelesslikelytoparticipateinconversationsandlackconfidencein social settings, than other individuals in their age group.

Foryears,speechandvoicedisordersinpeoplewithParkinson’sdiseasewereresistanttotreatment.Theeffectsofconventionaltreatments–whethermedical or surgical – were neither significant nor lasting. The recognition that speech therapy could be tailored to the specific problems of the Parkinson’s patientledtothedevelopmentofamethodaimedatimprovingvocalloudness,theLeeSilvermanVoiceTreatment(LSVTLOUD®)method.Thistechniquehashelped many individuals with Parkinson’s who experience speech problems; giving them new hope for improved communication.

Speech therapy: LSVT LOUD®Over the past 25 years, studies supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have demonstrated that LSVT LOUD® is an effective speech treatment forpeoplewholivewithParkinson’sdisease.Thosewhohaveutilizedthistreatmenthaveimprovedtheirvocalloudness,intonationandvoicequalityandmaintainedtheseimprovementsforuptotwoyearsaftertreatment.Recentresearchstudieshavealsodocumentedtheeffectivenessofthistherapyinmeeting the common problems of disordered articulation, diminished facial expression and impaired swallowing. In addition, two brain imaging studies have documented evidence of changes in the brain following the administration of the therapy.

The program is administered in 16 individual, one hour sessions over a single month. This mode of administration – much more intensive thanisthecasewithconventionalprograms–isconsistentwiththeoriesofmotorlearningandskillacquisition,aswellaswithprinciplesofneuralplasticity(i.e., the capacity of the nervous system to change in response to signals) and it is critical to attaining optimal results.

How to get LSVT LOUD®LSVTLOUD®isagloballystandardizedtreatmentandthereare14,000speechtherapistsin62countrieswhoaretrainedandcertifiedbyLSVTGlobaltodeliver the treatment protocol in a standardized and tested way.

LSVT LOUD® empowers people with Parkinson’s disease to participate in their treatment in a fundamental way to gain control over one important aspect of their Parkinson’s disease – the ability to communicate. The earlier a person with Parkinson’s disease receives a baseline speech evaluation and speech therapy, the more likely he or she will be able to maintain communication skills as the disease progresses. Communication is akeyelementinqualityoflifeandcanhelppeoplewithParkinson’sdiseasemaintainconfidence and a positive self-concept as they deal with the challenges of the disease.

To find a LSVT LOUD® certified therapist near you, go to www.LSVTGlobal.com, click on the “find a clinician tab” and enter your zip code. A list of therapists near you will appear.

Already an LSVT LOUD® Graduate? JoinourLOUDforLIFEexerciseclasstokeepyour voice strong and loud!Monday AfternoonsOurFatherLutheranChurch6335S.HollySt.,Rm.300-301,CentennialFormoreinformationortoregistercall(303)534-0324

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Parkinson’s Gift of CreativityBy Betsy Vierck, medical writer and person with Parkinson’s

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In2008,IwasdiagnosedwithParkinson’sdisease. The news startled me into dusting off my bucket list. Number one on the list was to learn how to paint with acrylics and with my iPad. In short order, taking classes and learning about art became an obsession.

I was happy to have this passion, which distracted me from the shakiness, slowness and stiffness that sometimes took over my body. Over the last six years painting helped me face and live happily with Parkinson’s disease. It is now an important part of my treatment plan.

Artistic Expression Can Be TherapeuticSeveral years after my diagnosis I learned

firsthand that doing something creative – dancing, painting, learning to play a new musical instrument – is not only important to maintain motor skills, but is also emotionally therapeutic.

Painting was a great outlet for me when my best friend was also diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I’d seen her disease emerge over a two year period and it broke my heart. We went out to dinner soon after her diagnosis. Staring at each other across the table our eyes reflected the pain and poignancy of the diagnosis we share. When I got home that night, I took out my iPad and sketched a portrait of my friend. I was grateful to be able to use art to help work out such difficult emotions. (Artwork at bottom on right.)

Parkinson’s Disease and Creativity: What We Know/Don’t Know

Without a doubt there is a connection between Parkinson’s disease and creativity. Scientifically speaking, whether the phenomenon occurs because of the medications prescribed for Parkinson’s, is related to Parkinson’s itself, or both isnotclear.Forthatmatter,theconnectionhasbeen mostly described from personal experiences, similar to mine, and not by science. Controlled studies are few and far between. However, this year saw what I hope is the start of a trend.

InJuly,ProfessorRivkaInzelberg,ofTelAvivUniversity’sSacklerFacultyofMedicine,publishedthe results of the first empirical study to verify a

link between the medications used for Parkinson’s disease and artistic expression. Parkinson’s patients suffer from a lack of dopamine, which is associated with tremors and poor coordination. As such, they are usually treated with either synthetic precursors of dopamine or dopamine receptor agonists.

According to Professor Inzelberg, the results are hardly surprising, because dopamine and artistry have long been connected. She explains, “We know that Van Gogh had psychotic spells, in which high levels of dopamine are secreted in the brain, and he was able to paint masterpieces during these spells – so we know there is a strong relationship between creativity and dopamine.” The connection between the drugs and creativity was supported by the study.

Programs That Foster CreativityParkinson patients often feel a new or

heightened urge to sing, dance or paint. But many have never done anything “artsy” or otherwise creative in the past and are embarrassed to start now. How often have you said or heard the following:

• “I can’t draw a straight line.”• “I have two left feet.“• “I love to read, but I can’t write?”

Thoughts like these keep us from even trying. ThegoalisnottobeGeorgiaO’Keefe,FredAstaireor Ernest Hemingway; it is to express ourselves, let go a little and have some fun.

Increased public awareness of the value of creativity could help to change resistance and negativity. A new awareness of the phenomenon, innovative programs and policies are growing. They include projects such as the Mayo Clinic’s Parkinson’s Community Collective, which provides music therapy, theatre, dance and other programs on creativity for patients, caregivers and staff.

The connection between Parkinson’s disease and creativity is even influencing public policy. Forexample,theUSConferenceofMayorshasendorsed art therapy programs for all forms of health care, and they advocate for increased

federal funding to make these programs happen. Two other examples illustrate the diversity of new programs springing up across the country.

• The Creativity and Parkinson’s Project, sponsored by the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation,encouragesthetherapeuticvalue of creativity by maintaining an online gallery where visual artists can share their work. They publish a yearly calendar that includes works by thirteen of these artists. Formoreinformationgotowww.PDF.organd enter keywords “Get Creative”.

• The American Art Therapy Association Toolkit Program now offers invaluable best practice guidance for implementing successful art therapy programs for people with any type of medical condition, including Parkinson’s disease, enabling new programs to hit the groundrunning.Formoreinformationvisitwww.ArtTherapy.org

ReflectingbackontherelationshipbetweenParkinson’s disease and creativity, these often-repeatedwordsofMichaelJ.Fox’sdescribeitbest:

“I have no choice about whether or not I have Parkinson’s. I have nothing but choices about how I react to it. In those choices, there’s freedom to do a lot of things in areas that I wouldn’t have otherwise found myself in.”

Formanyofusthatmeansenjoyingournewlydiscovered creativity and letting it thrive.

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JOIN US FOR THE PARTIES!PARTY FOR PARKINSON’S - PARTY IN THE GALLERYJoin us for an evening of festive drinks and delicious food. This party also includes entertainment, games, an auction and is a celebration of accomplishments and recognition to all those who have supported the Parkinson Association.

Thursday,October15,2015|6:00pmCocktails|7:30pmDinner&LiveAuctionArtworkNetwork|878SantaFeDr.,Suite2,DenverGeneralAdmission$150/person|YoungProfessional$75/person(under 40 years old) Formoreinfo&topurchasetickets:www.ParkinsonRockies.org/DinnerParty

PARTY FOR PARKINSON’S - PARTY WITH A HOUSE (What house? The Gingerbread House!)Welcome the holiday season and spread some cheer by joining us for a one-of -a-kind competition for the best decorated gingerbread house. Your participation in this event also generates critical community awareness of Parkinson’s disease. Event

participants will be provided with a pre-built gingerbread house, frosting and candy decorations. Everyone is also encouraged to add some flair to their house with personal decorations!

SaturdaysinNovember&December2015|9:00-10:30amParticipatingOldChicagoRestaurants

Registration$25/house|Housescanbedecoratedbyindividualsorasateam/familyFormoreinfo&toregister:www.ParkinsonRockies.org/HouseParty

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE FOR ALL EVENTS Contactformoreinfo:KBuchanan@ParkinsonRockies.org|(303)830-1839

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