April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month
Join the Westport Weston Family YMCA in raising awareness and supporting those affected by Parkinson’s Disease.
Did You Know? Parkinson’s Disease affects over 1 million Americans—and that number continues to grow. While there is currently no cure, education, resources, and physical activity can help improve quality of life.
We’re Here to Help
At the Y, we believe in strengthening community health—body, mind, and spirit. For individuals living with Parkinson’s, movement matters. Physical activity is proven to help maintain balance, mobility, and independence.
Whether it’s:
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Or specialized programs designed for Parkinson’s support
…the Westport Weston Family YMCA is a place of wellness and hope.
The Red Tulip
When you see a pink ribbon, you likely think of a breast cancer survivor or breast cancer awareness. Likewise, for Alzheimer’s disease awareness, a purple ribbon is the chosen color.
Interestingly, for Parkinson’s disease awareness, it is a red tulip. It was developed by J.W.S. Van der Wereld, a Dutch horticulturist who had Parkinson’s disease.
He dedicated and named this tulip for James Parkinson. It was described as follows, “exterior being a glowing cardinal red, small feathered white edge, the outer base whitish; the inside, a currant-red to a turkey-red, broad feathered white edge, anthers pale yellow.”
Learn the #ABCsOfPD
Throughout April, we’ll be sharing educational content from the Parkinson’s Foundation to help you understand more about Parkinson’s and how you can make a difference.
Follow along and get involved:
parkinson.org/awareness
Let’s Move Forward—Together 💪
Find a routine that works for you. One that keeps you strong, steady, and supported.
Visit westporty.org or contact our Health & Wellness Director, Patrick Freeman via pfreeman@westporty.org for more information on wellness programs.
