Empower Bend: Evidence, Innovation, and Everyday Function (In-Person)

Empower Bend is an in person educational forum designed to support people living with Parkinson’s and those who care for them through knowledge, movement, and connection.

To help us plan, please register by April 1st, though the event may fill up before that date. Register early to secure your spot!

This afternoon program brings together two neurologists and a Parkinson’s specific movement instructor for education and open conversation. Dr. Joseph Quinn, MD, Director of the OHSU Parkinson Center, will share current Parkinson’s research developments and opportunities, including what recent advances mean for patients and care partners and how individuals can become more involved in research efforts. Dr. Tyler Clark, MD, of Bend Neurological Associates, will provide an overview of the medications used to treat both motor and non motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, with a focus on how treatments are selected, adjusted over time, and discussed with care teams.

Both physician sessions will include dedicated time for questions and answers, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the speakers.

The afternoon will also include a guided movement and interaction session led by Kimberly Walters, who teaches Parkinson’s specific dance and movement classes in the community. This session will focus on simple, accessible movements to support mobility, circulation, and posture. Movements can be done seated or standing.

Empower Bend is open to people with Parkinson’s, care partners, family members, and anyone supporting someone living with Parkinson’s.

Additionally: This event is free to attend. Donations are welcome and help support the sustainability of educational programs like Empower Bend, including speaker travel and program costs.

Info: Join us to get settled, enjoy lunch, and visit with attending sponsors and exhibitors before the program begins.

Info: This session will share the most recent advances in research and what our evolving understanding of the disease means for patients and care partners. Learn what research areas show the most promise for improving quality of life or slowing the progression of the disease. Dr. Quinn will also share how patients and care partners can get more involved to support research activities.

Info: This Parkinson’s specific movement session will guide participants through simple, intentional movements designed to support mobility, balance, posture, and circulation. Kimberly will explain why these movements are helpful for people living with Parkinson’s and how they relate to everyday activities. Participants will learn practical movements they can safely practice at home, with options to move seated or standing and at their own pace.

Info: This session will provide an overview of the medications commonly used to treat both motor and non motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Clark will discuss how different medications work, common side effects, and how treatment plans are adjusted over time. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how medications are selected and managed, and how to have more informed conversations with their care team about symptom management.

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