Ask An Expert: What We Learned from the WPC

Mariel Boyle-Franzen • July 15, 2026

Bringing World Parkinson’s Congress Insights to Our Orange County Community

Parkinson’s Orange County recently hosted a special Ask An Expert recording highlighting key takeaways from the World Parkinson’s Congress and what these important developments mean for our local Parkinson’s community.


Our Ask An Expert educational series was created to make trusted, meaningful information more accessible to individuals living with Parkinson’s, care partners, and families throughout Orange County. By bringing insights from leading research and conversations directly to our community, we hope to help people feel better informed, supported, and empowered throughout the Parkinson’s journey. This recording explores two important areas: movement, music, and the brain and exercise as medicine. Research and practice continue to demonstrate the powerful role that movement, rhythm, and regular physical activity can play in supporting both motor and cognitive health.


Music and rhythm can offer more than enjoyment. They may also support movement, coordination, engagement, and connection. Exercise is similarly becoming an increasingly important part of Parkinson’s care, helping individuals remain active while supporting mobility, independence, and overall well-being.

The conversation does more than share information—it helps connect global research and innovation with the everyday experiences of people living with Parkinson’s here in Orange County. Our goal is to make these insights understandable, practical, and relevant to the individuals and families we serve.


More Important Conversations Ahead

The next Ask An Expert session will continue our World Parkinson’s Congress recap with two additional topics: Women and Parkinson’s and Technology and Parkinson’s Care.


These conversations will explore how Parkinson’s can affect people differently, including the distinct experiences and care needs of women. We will also look at how emerging technologies, innovative tools, and more personalized approaches are helping shape the future of Parkinson’s care.


We invite you to watch, learn, and share this resource with anyone who may benefit from trusted education, practical insight, and continued hope along the Parkinson’s journey.



Watch the recording:
https://youtu.be/KzpOGrcKKdM


By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • September 25, 2026
Heat Up Hope Gala Raises $34,520 for Parkinson’s Orange County
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • September 11, 2026
You’re invited to spend Saturday, September 19, 2026, with Parkinson’s Orange County at Heat Up Hope Whether you’re new to our community or already know a few familiar faces, there’s a place for you at the table. Coming on your own can feel like a big step. We’ll help solo guests join a table with welcoming people, so you can settle in and start a conversation. Care partners, family members, and friends are welcome, too. Appointments, energy levels, and everyday responsibilities can make planning an evening out complicated. Here’s the schedule to help you decide what works for you: 5:00 PM — Cocktails, live music, mingling 5:45 PM — Dinner & raffles 6:30 PM — Featured speakers: Mike Kimball, Joannie Rollins, Yuri Flaxbard + surprise speaker! 7:00 PM — Fund-A-Need, dessert & dancing The evening concludes at 8 PM. Dancing is optional, and you’re welcome to stay seated, enjoy the live music, and spend time talking with the people at your table. Participate at your own pace. Heat Up Hope takes place at Orchard Terrace at the Norman P. Murray Community Center, 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo. Free parking is available on site. Tickets are $40 per person or $75 for two and include a full Mexican dinner and live music. Questions before deciding? Email info@parkinsonsoc.org. We’d be happy to hear from you. If you’ve been meaning to make a plan, take a moment to reserve your tickets and mark September 19 on your calendar. We look forward to sharing the evening with you.
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • September 10, 2026
Dinner and Community at Heat Up Hope
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • August 28, 2026
190 Registrants Gather for Parkinson’s Orange County’s Mid Stride Empowerment Workshop 
By Rand Tanner • August 20, 2026
California State Bill 895 Update
By Joanie Rollins • August 15, 2026
Let your voice be heard in Washington.
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • July 22, 2026
Women & Parkinson’s and Technology & Parkinson’s Care- Research Summary from the World Parkinson's Congress
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • July 21, 2026
Rock for a Cause: Celebrate the Legacy of Ozzy Osbourne While Supporting Parkinson’s Orange County 
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • July 20, 2026
Be Prepared: Preparing for a Hospital Stay with Parkinson’s
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • July 15, 2026
Find Support, Resources, and Expert Guidance at Parkinson’s Orange County’s Mid Stride Workshop