From global advocacy to community building, BGF amplifies awareness and empowers people with Parkinson’s this April
Portland, Ore. (March 24, 2025) – This April, Parkinson’s Awareness Month, the Brian Grant Foundation (BGF) is rallying communities worldwide to support and uplift those living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Through a powerful lineup of advocacy efforts, community engagement, fundraising initiatives, and global partnerships, BGF is driving awareness and action to improve the lives of people with PD.
The month-long campaign will culminate in BGF’s signature event, the 15th Anniversary “Shake It ’Til We Make It” Gala, on April 25, 2025—an inspiring evening dedicated to raising critical funds for wellness programs and advocacy efforts. The gala’s platinum sponsors include AbbVie, Dick’s Auto Group, Jamba Juice, Marquis Companies, Moda Health, and Pivot Group.
“Parkinson’s Awareness Month is a time to amplify the voices of those living with PD and to unite as a community,” said Katrina Kahl, Executive Director of the Brian Grant Foundation. “Through education, advocacy, and shared experiences, we’re not just raising awareness—we’re driving meaningful change. We invite everyone to join us in supporting people with Parkinson’s and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to live active and fulfilling lives.”
April Highlights: Awareness, Advocacy, and Community
A New Season of On Time: A Parkinson’s Podcast
Every Tuesday in April, BGF’s special podcast series will feature intimate conversations with Brian Grant’s children, who candidly share their experiences of growing up with a parent living with Parkinson’s.
A Global Stand for Parkinson’s – Spark the Night
In partnership with global advocacy group PD Avengers, BGF will participate in Spark the Night—a global movement illuminating landmarks in blue on April 11, 2025, for World Parkinson’s Day. In Portland, iconic bridges will shine blue in a powerful display of solidarity.
“Shake It ’Til We Make It” 15th Anniversary Gala
The culminating event of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, this highly anticipated gala will take place on Thursday, April 25, 2025, at 6 PM PST. The evening will bring together advocates, supporters, and industry leaders to raise crucial funds for BGF’s wellness programs and advocacy initiatives.
Along with the event’s platinum sponsors, gold sponsors include Jordan Brand, ‘Ohana Ventures, NBA Cares, Pearl Catering, Portland Trail Blazers, and Sapphire Health Services. Tickets are available at briangrant.org/gala.
The Brian Grant Foundation empowers people impacted by Parkinson’s disease to lead active and fulfilling lives. BGF was founded by former Blazer, Brian Grant, who is living with Parkinson’s. Learn more at briangrant.org.
March 14, 2025
Today is World Sleep Day, and few things are as essential to living well with Parkinson’s than the rest and recovery attained through sleep. Join us as we celebrate this important day and highlight some of the strategies YOU can employ to improve your sleep and overall health.
Check out these resources for learning about the importance of sleep and PD
Join the conversation to share your sleep tips and experiences
By Theresa Harczo, RN, Providence Brain and Spine Center, Portland, OR
Living in Oregon means living through four distinct seasons every year. Seasonal changes in temperature, sunlight, and activity can affect people with Parkinson’s in unique ways. Read on for tips to manage these changes and make the most of the spring months.
- NEW BEGINNINGS are brought to us in the Spring
- Daylight savings time began on Sunday, March 9th which offers more light into our day 1
- Sunlight increases serotonin production which helps regulate mood and stabilize emotions 2
- Spring entices us to venture outdoors to observe nature as it wakens from dormancy into buds that later form flowers and new leaves unfold to take shape and grow into a canopy. 3
- THE OLD FARMERS ALMANAC says this about Spring 2025 4
- In the Northern Hemisphere, spring begins March 20th at 2:01am Pacific Standard Time
- If you live in the northwest corner of the US, the Almanac calls for fairly mild temperatures, so don’t put away your warm clothing quite yet. We may be in for more chilly and damp days.
- EXERCISE becomes more enticing 5
- If the winter months have slowed you down and you want to get into physical activities have your provider refer you to a physical therapist who can give you specific exercises that are right for you.
- If you are already familiar with what exercises work for you, start back at a lower intensity and slowly increase the distance, time, and weight vs jumping in where you left off.
- If the idea of formal exercise is unappealing, consider a light hike with friends, work in your yard, take up yoga or tai chi, or play with children.
- FOOD available in Spring months 6
- Transitioning from hearty options during the winter, Spring brings fresh herbs, berries, and vegetables
- Purchase locally grown seasonal foods that are more nutritious and full of flavor.
- Look for sweet cherries for their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Asparagus is rich in nutrients and fiber. Garden peas are a great source of plant-based protein. Strawberries bring sweetness to your plate and new research has found they can help improve cognition!
Sources
1 Daylight Saving Time 2025 in the United States
2 The Relationship Between Sunshine, Serotonin, Vitamin D, and Depression –
3 Signs of Spring – Pittsburgh Botanic Garden
4 Spring Weather Forecast 2025 – Farmers’ Almanac
5 Tips for Daily Living: Preparing for Spring with Parkinson’s Disease | Parkinson’s Foundation
6 The 8 Healthiest Foods to Eat This Spring – FitOn
