OSWEGO – Bishop’s Commons in Oswego will host a community presentation entitled, “Parkinson’s Disease Journey” on Tuesday, April 9th beginning at 2:00 p.m.

The educational forum will offer a general overview of the Parkinson’s disease, including the development of motor and non-motor (gastrointestinal, sleep and other) symptoms, and treatment options.

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Dr. Blume completed her bachelor’s degree (Neurobiology) at the University of Wisconsin Madison in 2006 and her PhD (Pharmacology) at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. Dr. Blume has 14 years in clinical and basic science research, focusing on the electrophysiological properties of the brain in numerous disease states, including Parkinson’s Disease, mood-related psychiatric disorders and sleep disorders. Dr. Blume joined AbbVie 5 years ago as a Medical Science Liaison with Neuroscience, and is based in Asheville, NC. In her current position, Dr. Blume provides education on neurological disease states and supports AbbVie’s Parkinson’s and other neuroscience pipeline products.

The hour-long program will feature Speaker Shannon R. Blume, PH.D, a Senior Medical Science Liaison with AbbVie Neuroscience. The event is sponsored by Empower Parkinson, Inc. a Central New York wellness center that provides persons with Parkinson’s and their care partners with a holistic program of wellness that aids in maintaining motor function and offers the tools they need to age well.

April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month. Current data shows there are approximately 3,500 people in Central New York living with Parkinson’s disease and every 6 minutes someone in the US is diagnosed with PD. Empower Parkinson, Inc. is a non-profit wellness center that helps individuals in CNY fight back against Parkinson’s disease by offering opportunities for education, exercise and support. 

“This year we are proud to collaborate with Oswego County Office for Aging and Bishop’s Commons at St. Luke to offer a free introduction to Parkinson’s disease program presented by Dr. Shannon Blume, a Senior Medical Science Liaison with AbbVie Neuroscience,” said Marlene Reinmann, Events & Outreach Coordinator with Empower Parkinson, Inc.  “Empower Parkinson’s motto is “We won’t let you fight alone!” and so we thank the Oswego County OFA and Bishop’s Commons for joining us in fighting back against Parkinson’s disease this April.”

The event is free of charge and open to the public, light refreshments will be provided. Those planning to attend are asked to register for the event by calling Bishop’s Commons at 315-349-0799. 

Bishop’s Commons is conveniently located at 4 Burkle Street in the City of Oswego, easily accessible to families and visitors.