In a poignant display of community spirit and dedication, Circleville Mayor Michelle Blanton marked the beginning of National Parkinson’s Awareness Month by honoring the Riffle family for their unwavering advocacy and commitment to raising awareness for Parkinson’s disease.
During a Circleville Council meeting Tuesday evening, Mayor Blanton presented the Riffle family with a proclamation in recognition of their tireless efforts to shed light on Parkinson’s disease and support those affected by it. The proclamation highlights the significance of April as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month and underscores the importance of early detection, caregiving, and research in combating the disease.
“We are honored to have the Riffle family, dedicated advocates for Parkinson’s in our community, with us tonight,” Mayor Blanton remarked. “Their annual Parkinson’s walk, organized in collaboration with OhioHealth, has become a symbol of hope and solidarity for individuals and families impacted by Parkinson’s.”
In response to Mayor Blanton’s proclamation, a member of the Riffle family shared the heartfelt journey behind the inception of the Parkinson’s walk, which began in 2012 following the passing of their loved ones due to Parkinson’s-related complications. They emphasized the critical role of community support and the significant contributions of local businesses and residents in fostering awareness and providing resources for Parkinson’s patients.
“Through the support of OhioHealth and the generosity of our community, our walk has grown exponentially each year,” expressed a member of the Riffle family. “OhioHealth’s Parkinson’s wellness program has been instrumental in providing tailored exercise programs and essential equipment to enhance the quality of life for Parkinson’s patients.”
The Riffle family extended their gratitude to the leaders of the community and emphasized the collective strength of a community united in a shared purpose. They underscored the vital role of driven leaders and the unwavering support of the community in advancing the cause of Parkinson’s awareness and support.
As April unfolds, residents of Circleville are invited to join in the annual Parkinson’s walk on April 27, 2024, as a symbol of solidarity and support for those affected by Parkinson’s disease. Through collective action and community engagement, Circleville continues to lead the way in raising awareness and fostering support for Parkinson’s patients and their families.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, characterized by tremors, stiffness, and impaired balance and coordination. While it typically develops in older adults, it can occur at any age. Parkinson’s disease is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to the development of symptoms over time.
Every year, Parkinson’s disease affects millions of people worldwide, with estimates suggesting that approximately 60,000 people are diagnosed with the condition in the United States alone. While Parkinson’s itself is not usually fatal, complications arising from the disease, such as pneumonia or falls, can contribute to increased mortality rates. Despite ongoing research efforts to improve treatment options and quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s, there is currently no cure for the disease.
