Dear AMDAPP Community,
Attending the Policy Forum in Washington, DC with the Michael J. Fox Foundation was something I’ll carry with me for a long time. Being in a room filled with patients, care partners, clinicians, and advocates—all there for the same reason—was both powerful and deeply humbling. Hearing these stories brought a different kind of weight to the reality of Parkinson’s disease, one that goes far beyond what we see in the clinic. I spoke with a patient who has spent years navigating daily fluctuations and life with DBS—where even something as simple as getting through an airport now requires planning and accommodations. I met a widow who lost her husband to young-onset Parkinson’s just last summer, their future taken from them far too soon. I spoke with a young mother trying to imagine what life will look like as she raises her children while living with this disease. I also met a researcher whose funding was cut—delaying progress that so many are depending on. And over and over again, I heard how Parkinson’s quietly takes away careers, independence, and pieces of identity. It left me with a heavy but clear realization: this work matters—but right now, it’s not enough.
One of the biggest takeaways was how essential advocacy truly is. Change doesn’t only happen in clinics or research labs—it happens when these stories are brought directly to the people who shape policy. Walking to Capitol Hill alongside this community, sharing these experiences, and pushing for better funding, access, and support felt incredibly important. It was a reminder that one voice matters—but a collective voice is impossible to ignore. Walking away from the forum, it felt clear that telling these stories and staying engaged in advocacy isn’t separate from the clinical work—it’s a critical part of it. That’s how we create real change for everyone living with Parkinson’s disease. Because at the end of the day, I want to be able to look my patients in the eye and know—without question—that we left nothing on the table in the fight to help them.
With appreciation,
Cheryl Kyinn
On behalf of the AMDAPP Executive Committee |
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Cheryl Kyinn
AMDAPP Executive Committee Member |
Top 10 Ways APPs Make an Impact in Parkinson’s Care |
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- Recognizing early signs and supporting timely diagnosis
- Educating patients and families about disease progression
- Personalizing treatment plans for each patient
- Managing complex medication regimens
- Supporting non-motor symptom care (sleep, mood, cognition)
- Providing ongoing patient and caregiver education
- Coordinating multidisciplinary care
- Offering compassionate, long-term support
- Advocating for access to care and resources
- Building meaningful relationships that improve quality of life
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Now Streaming: The Movement Minute 🎧
Our brand-new podcast is here! In Episode 1, Bridging the Gap, AMDAPP leaders discuss the critical role APPs play in improving access to care for patients with movement disorders. Tune in for a fast-paced, practical conversation you can take into your day-to-day practice. |
WORLD PARKINSON'S DAY:
SPARK THE NIGHT |
85% of Parkinson's diagnoses do not have a known genetic risk factor. Instead, decades of research back-up the link between Parkinson’s and chemicals like Paraquat and trichloroethylene (TCE). So, we're applauding the efforts of PD Avengers and PMD Alliance for Parkinson's Awareness Month to raise the alarm.
For all of April, three billboards in Times Square in New York City + many more across the world will educate the undiagnosed about their PD risk. But it's your personal touch that will really drive lasting change. Join us on social media all Parkinson's Awareness Month long!
To learn more, visit http://f-parkinsons.com/. Join the movement: share now. |
UPCOMING EDUCATION & CLINICAL RESOURCES |
At this year’s American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting, AMDAPP will be presenting on the expanding role of advanced practice providers in leadership.
We’re honored to be part of this important conversation and to help elevate the voice and impact of APPs within neurology. |
REGIONAL EDUCATION SERIES |
Cleveland is right around the corner — April 10th!
If you haven’t registered yet, now is the time. Join us for 4 FREE CME hours, expert-led sessions, and practical movement disorder education created just for APPs.
👉 Don’t wait — reserve your spot today. |
AMDAPP is hitting the road! 🚗💡
Join us for our brand-new Regional Education Series- making stops in Cleveland, Dallas, and Northern California in 2026!
This Movement Disorder Bootcamp is an engaging day packed with dynamic discussion and 🎉 up to 4 FREE CME hours 🎉 highlighting the latest and greatest in movement disorders.
Check out the draft agenda below!
Learning, networking, great food… what more could you ask for?
See you on the road! 🌟
Venues and more details coming soon but reserve your spot today! |
Click on the city below to RESERVE YOUR SPOT today! |
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Interested in shaping the future of Parkinson’s prevention?
Join the Planning for Prevention of Parkinson’s and Related Synucleinopathies – Trial Design Forum, taking place May 22–24, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona.
This collaborative forum will explore key topics including identifying at-risk individuals, designing interventional trials, leveraging biomarkers, and advancing prevention through multidisciplinary approaches.
If you're passionate about advancing Parkinson’s research and care, this is an opportunity to be part of meaningful progress.
👉 Learn more and register using the QR code or click here to register. |
CORPORATE ROUNDTABLE CORNER |
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Your donation supports our mission to enhance care for individuals with Parkinson’s and movement disorders by providing support, resources and education to APPs. Become a part of this impactful movement by donating today!
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Interested in getting involved?
Email us at hello@amdapp.org and let us know! |
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