The Parkinson's Disease Buddy Program
The Parkinson’s Disease Buddy Program is an educational program that pairs first-year medical students with people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. They meet for one day each month over the course of the academic year. The buddies determine their own activities based on mutual interests and preferences. Buddies have met for bowling, fitness classes, meals, arts events and walks in the park etc. There will group outings offered by National Parkinson’s Institute, speeches given by Neurologist Dr. Victoria Holiday and opportunities to become a PD Buddy ambassador.
The program is a collaboration of UofL Physicians — Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders, University of Louisville School of Medicine, the National Parkinsons Institute, and Denise Cumberland of the UofL College of Education and Human Development.
The goals of the Parkinson’s Disease Buddy Program are:
- Educating medical students on Parkinson's and neurological disease
- Helping students understand day-to-day challenges of living with Parkinson's disease and chronic neurological disorders, and improving their knowledge and empathy skills
- Introducing students to research and career opportunities in neurology and movement disorders
- Encouraging community outreach in medical students by means of "out-of-classrom" learning
- Providing people with Parkinson's the opportunity to interact and share their perspective while educating the medical community.
- Improving socialbility for people with Parkinson's
Be on the lookout for a list upcoming events to participate in for the Parkinson’s Diseases Buddy Program!
