Jump Start PD Workshop Brings Education, Resources, and Hope to Orange County’s Newly Diagnosed Parkinson’s Community

Erin Angelo • June 15, 2026

Parkinson’s Orange County was proud to welcome newly diagnosed individuals, care partners, local experts, exhibitors, and community supporters to our recent Jump Start PD Workshop on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Rogue Physical Therapy and Wellness in Fountain Valley.

Created specifically for individuals within the first five years of a Parkinson’s diagnosis, Jump Start is designed to help participants feel more informed, more connected, and less alone as they begin navigating life with Parkinson’s disease. A new diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but the morning served as a powerful reminder that support, education, and meaningful resources are available right here in Orange County.

Throughout the workshop, attendees had the opportunity to learn about the basics of Parkinson’s disease, ask questions, explore the role of exercise and healthy lifestyle choices, and hear directly from someone living well with Parkinson’s. The event brought together medical insight, practical tools, personal encouragement, and local connections in one welcoming space.

Featured speakers included Dr. Ann Ly, Neurologist and Movement Disorder Specialist; Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS, of Rogue Physical Therapy and Wellness; and Lauren Simmons, President of the Parkinson’s Orange County Board and a person living with Parkinson’s. Their presentations helped attendees better understand the disease, the importance of movement and wellness, and the many ways people can continue to live fully and meaningfully after diagnosis.

The morning also featured local exhibitors and community partners offering information on exercise programs, therapy services, treatment education, care partner support, clinical trials, wellness resources, and ongoing Parkinson’s programs. Attendees were able to connect directly with organizations and professionals who serve the Parkinson’s community throughout Orange County.

Parkinson’s Orange County is deeply grateful to our speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, and every attendee who helped make this event such a meaningful success. Your presence, questions, stories, and commitment to learning helped create a morning filled with connection, encouragement, and hope.

For those who attended, a follow-up contact and resource sheet has been provided with information from the workshop, including local providers, exercise programs, helpful books, websites, videos, clinical trial resources, and Parkinson’s support organizations.

Most importantly, Jump Start reminded us of one essential message: no one has to face Parkinson’s alone. Parkinson’s Orange County remains committed to helping individuals and families connect with the resources, support, and community they need to live well with Parkinson’s.

To learn more about Parkinson’s Orange County programs, resources, and upcoming events, visit www.parkinsonsoc.org.

To view video from the event including presentations and information, click here: https://youtu.be/gu6J5ADozgA?si=e32IRm8pw-NyYGLh

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