Last month, the BGF team had the privilege of attending the 2026 World Parkinson Congress (WPC) in Phoenix, Arizona. This incredible event brought together more than 4,000 people from around the world, including researchers, clinicians, people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners, advocates, and support group leaders. The WPC is unlike any other conference. It is a place where every corner of the Parkinson’s community comes together with a shared goal.
The conference began with an unforgettable opening ceremony honoring the organizers whose vision and dedication made it all possible. When the ceremony concluded, thousands of us filed into the hallways where volunteers lined the corridors cheering and applauding as we passed. It was a simple but deeply moving moment. Their message was clear: you made it here, you are courageous, and you should be proud. It was a beautiful reminder that no one in this community walks their Parkinson’s journey alone.
Sessions ranged from practical topics like preventing and treating falls to guided meditation and networking opportunities for support group leaders. We attended discussions on medication timing and accuracy, disease progression algorithms, and emerging research studies exploring sleep and Parkinson’s. Many presentations focused on the future of Parkinson’s research and treatment. One presentation that stood out was delivered by researcher Daniel Corcos, who discussed the growing body of evidence supporting exercise as a critical intervention for Parkinson’s disease. Across multiple sessions, one message was repeated consistently by researchers and clinicians alike, and is our biggest takeaway from the entire event: Exercise remains the only intervention currently proven to have disease-modifying effects in Parkinson’s disease.
Roundtable discussions were especially engaging. These small group conversations brought together about a dozen participants and an expert facilitator for intimate, open dialogue. Topics included women and Parkinson’s, alpha-synuclein biomarkers, the gut microbiome, and healthy lifestyle habits. There were also “controversial topic” sessions that allowed leading scientists to respectfully debate differing viewpoints. These discussions highlighted an important truth: there is still so much we don’t know about Parkinson’s disease.
Outside the meeting rooms, pickleball and ping pong tournaments brought out friendly competition among the attendees. Auctions displayed art created by people living with Parkinson’s. Inspirational quilts lined the walls and each told a unique story of resilience and hope. Throughout the venue, attendees participated in exercise classes, dance programs, music sessions, wellness activities, and even enjoyed a massage!
People from around the world stopped by the BGF table to share their stories, exchange ideas, and connect with others who understand the Parkinson’s journey. Several individuals told us how much our programs have meant to them and expressed gratitude for the support they have received. Of course, many also enjoyed taking photos with our life-sized image of Brian!
The Brian Grant Foundation returned from WPC with new ideas, fresh inspiration, and valuable knowledge. We look forward to incorporating what we learned into our programs and continuing to support our community with the latest information, resources, and opportunities to live well with Parkinson’s.
