Ready to Fight ft. Guest Speaker Lauren Simmons

Mariel Boyle-Franzen • July 20, 2026

Be Prepared: Preparing for a Hospital Stay with Parkinson’s

A hospital visit can be stressful for anyone, but for people living with Parkinson’s disease, careful preparation is especially important.


Join the Ready to Fight Parkinson’s Support Group in San Juan Capistrano on Tuesday, July 21, at 11:30 a.m. for a special presentation featuring Lauren Simmons, Board President of Parkinson’s Orange County.


After living with Parkinson’s for 10 years, Lauren recently experienced an emergency room visit that reminded her how easily important details can be overlooked—even when you know what to expect. She will share lessons from her experience and practical guidance to help individuals with Parkinson’s and their loved ones prepare for an emergency room visit or hospital stay.


This conversation will offer valuable information for people living with Parkinson’s, care partners, family members, and anyone who wants to feel more confident navigating hospital care.


Event Details

Date: Tuesday, July 21
Time: 11:30 a.m.
Location: Capistrano Boxing Gym
31531 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 102
San Juan Capistrano, CA



We hope you’ll join us for this important and informative discussion. Being prepared can help you advocate for yourself or your loved one and make a challenging hospital experience safer and less overwhelming.

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 15, 2026
Find Support, Resources, and Expert Guidance at Parkinson’s Orange County’s Mid Stride Workshop
By Mariel Boyle-Franzen • July 15, 2026
Adopt-A-Day: Honor a Life, Share a Story, and Inspire Hope