Parkinson's Unity Walk

20/04/2025

The Parkinson’s Unity Walk is a cornerstone of our community. Every year, we gather in Central Park during Parkinson’s Awareness Month for an inspiring day of connection and action. It’s a chance to meet others on similar paths, unite around our shared mission and rally together to fund high-impact research that will change lives.

This footage from last year’s event captures the spirit, passion and dedication of our incredible community.

Join us for this year’s Unity Walk on Saturday, April 26, in Central Park. Register now: https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL0000046yaH

16/04/2025

“Parkinson's disease doesn't discriminate, and its impact reaches beyond those diagnosed. Over the years, I've watched family and friends struggle with the disease, and it's why I am committed to supporting the Parkinson's Unity Walk,” shared Tim Weiss.

"From my Uncle Howard to my sister's husband, David, I’ve seen Parkinson’s impact loved ones across generations. My dear Aunt Mary, my brother Steve’s stepfather-in-law named David, and two close friends — Tom, and a former colleague, also named Tom — have all faced this disease, each with their own challenges.

"In 2007, I learned about the Parkinson's Unity Walk, immediately signed up to participate and began fundraising. My first year, I set my goal at $500 and ended up raising over $1,600.

"I get very emotional during my fundraising efforts, especially on walk day, seeing all the amazing people who are living with the disease as well as their loved ones and supporters. The differences I've seen over the years in how people live with Parkinson’s are clear proof that research is working. Efforts like the Unity walk and MJFF have made great progress and will continue improving quality of life for those with the disease. I hope to see a cure in my lifetime."

Join us at the 2025 Parkinson’s Unity Walk on Saturday, April 26 in Central Park. Join us: https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL000003y73J

13/04/2025

This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, be part of the movement that turns action into impact.

On Saturday, April 26, join us in Central Park for the Parkinson’s Unity Walk — a day of community, connection and momentum toward a cure.

The day of the walk you can enjoy the 1.2 mile route, watch programming at the Naumburg Bandshell from PD groups, explore informational booths featuring industry representatives, and national and local groups providing resources for people and families living with Parkinson's.

👟🏃 Register now: https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL000003y7JR

08/04/2025

“This day means hope and encouragement; there is a real strength I get from walking with my family and friends that is unmatched,” shared Marian Sheeran, Parkinson’s Unity Walk attendee and MJFF community member.

"I first got involved with The Michael J. Fox Foundation a few months after I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in August of 2022. I had always associated PD with Michael J. Fox because of his advocacy for the disease.

"My son had told me about the Parkinson's Unity Walk, and I was in. As a family, we joined a pre-existing team through other mutual friends and have attended each year since! The Unity Walk was the first place I connected with other Parkinson’s patients, which was incredibly meaningful for me when I was first diagnosed.

"I truly believe we are close to a cure for PD.”

Join us at the 2025 Parkinson’s Unity Walk on Saturday, April 26 in Central Park. Sign up: https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL000003y4Jy

31/03/2025

“In 2014, when I was 2, my Grandpa Raj was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD). In 2017, my family joined the Parkinson’s Unity Walk to get information about PD, and in 2018, Team Chopra was born.

“In 2019, I took over as Team Captain. When you feel helpless, I think helping others can make a difference. My mom always says, ‘We have the power to change the energy of the earth by our actions.’ I’ve been so fortunate to have friends and family join, some in-person and some energetically. In 2020 and 2021, we participated virtually, but when we finally gathered again, we did so with a renewed commitment to raising awareness. Returning to Central Park and seeing familiar faces is always a joy.

“Over the years, Team Chopra has raised and donated over $50,000. The key to our fundraising success is Grandpa Raj K. Chopra. He has helped so many people who feel profound gratitude towards him.

“This year, we are walking in memory of our beloved matriarch, Grandma ‘GlamMa’ Asha, the primary support and partner to our PD Warrior, Grandpa Raj. Asha means hope. Let’s keep hope alive. Our mantra for the Parkinson’s Unity Walk this year is, ‘Hope till the sun rises on a cure.’” — Avana Grace, Team Chopra

Join Team Chopra and hundreds of others at this year’s Parkinson’s Unity Walk on Saturday, April 26. Register now at michaeljfox.org/UnityWalk and read the full Team Chopra blog here: https://www.michaeljfox.org/news/next-gen-leader-team-chopras-unity-walk-captain-action?os_cid=fb-a1bVL000003xfob

26/03/2025

One month until the Parkinson’s Unity Walk!

Join us as we come together as a community in Central Park on April 26 — each step a tribute to the people we love and a shared commitment to pushing Parkinson’s research forward.

Who do you walk for? Share in the comments below. 🧡👇

Join us: https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL000003rete

25/03/2025

Nearly 20 years ago, Ruth Anne Drown took her first steps at the Parkinson’s Unity Walk, inspired by a friend. Since then, she and her team, DrowningPD, have raised an incredible $200,000 to fund the research that has transformed her life.

“For me, walking in Central Park at the Unity Walk is about more than just fundraising. The camaraderie is wonderful. The information center is full of resources to help people navigate their diagnosis and treatment options. It’s a day of hope, connection and progress,” shared Ruth Anne.

Diagnosed at 39 while raising three young children, Ruth Anne spent decades managing Parkinson’s — balancing medications, enduring dyskinesia and experiencing falls. But thanks to advances in research and technology, including deep brain stimulation, she’s regained control. Today, at nearly 72, she’s walking, weight training, horseback riding and even wrote and published two memoirs.

“The quality of my life is so much better thanks to the research and technology that led me to this. Without funds, the research would not exist. Neither would the medications and technology that changed my life.”

Be part of the progress. Register for the Parkinson’s Unity Walk today and start fundraising to help drive research forward. https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL000003sGR8

17/03/2025

There’s just over a month until the 2025 Parkinson’s Unity Walk! Will you join us for a day of learning, connecting and fundraising?

This year will be even more special. Because of the generosity of an anonymous donor, every dollar raised at the Parkinson’s Unity Walk will be matched up to $1.5 million. This means double the dollars for critical research and public policy initiatives that will lead to a world without Parkinson’s.

Register now and start fundraising today! https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL000003o2bC

12/03/2025

There’s still time to register for the Parkinson’s Unity Walk! Join us in Central Park for a day of learning, connecting and fundraising for a cure for Parkinson’s disease.

This year, due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, every dollar raised will be matched up to $1.5 million.

Register at the link in bio to get started fundraising so you don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to have your fundraising dollars matched for an even bigger impact. Every cent raised will go toward critical research and public policy initiatives that will help meet the unmet needs of every person living with Parkinson’s.

We can’t do this without you. 🧡

https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-parkinsons-unity-walk/e636861?c_src=os_cidfb-a1bVL000003o1FJ

04/02/2025

“We first got involved with the Parkinson's Unity Walk in 2019, two years after our mom, Anita, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. We initially participated to find a sense of community and actively do something to help the fight against Parkinson's by raising money for research. Over time, the walk has become so much more to our family.

“This day is now a celebration of family, friends, love, and support — a date saved on so many of our loved ones’ calendars months in advance to show their love for Anita.

“Our flower crowns have become our signature hairpiece. Anyone who knows our mom knows she exudes love and positivity, lighting up every room. Wearing these crowns is our way of honoring a beautiful, tenacious woman. The denim jackets? Simply a style choice. ✌” — Maddie and Gabby Spero of Team Anita’s Flowers

Join the Parkinson’s Unity Walk in April to celebrate hope, community, and the incredible people who make it all possible. https://bit.ly/3Epc4b7

Why do you walk? Share your story in the comments.

22/04/2024

It's Unity Walk week!

Grab your walking crew and join us this Saturday, April 27 in Central Park for the Parkinson's Unity Walk. Our team can’t wait to bring you a day filled with exciting bandshell programming, dozens of PD resources, and an incredible opportunity to connect with your local Parkinson’s community.

P.S. There is still time to register online and walk-up registrations are welcome starting at 8:30am the morning of the .

Register online: https://bit.ly/3JvHSds

18/04/2024

Looking for an activity the night before the Parkinson’s Unity Walk?

On Friday, April 26, a portion of proceeds from all ticket sales to the show, A Beautiful Noise | The Neil Diamond Musical will be donated to The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Learn more about the musical and buy your tickets today:

A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical on Broadway with Will Swenson as Neil Diamond will begin previews on November 2, 2022.