The Event: The 2025 Parkinson’s Policy Forum
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 — Senate Meetings
After the chaos and setbacks trying to get to Washington, D.C., I finally made it! It was exhilarating. Despite the delays, I still had the chance to attend some of the most important events of the forum.
I checked into the hotel, suited up, and rushed to Capitol Hill. Our meetings were held across several historic buildings—the Longworth, Cannon, and Rayburn House Office Buildings, as well as the Senate Office Buildings.
Walking into these iconic halls, I always feel like I’m in a movie. But this time was different. This time, I had a mission. I was there in memory of my mother, Sharon—to raise awareness and share hope for a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
That Tuesday, our group met with both of Florida’s U.S. Senators: Senator Ashley Moody and Senator Rick Scott.
Thanks to the incredible preparation and planning by The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF), we rehearsed our personal stories and refined our message. I even had the rare opportunity to speak with MJFF’s CEO, Debbi Brooks. Her kindness, leadership, and encouragement were a true highlight of my trip.
The Policy “Asks”
Parkinson’s affects over one million Americans. It’s the second most common and fastest-growing neurological disease, with devastating impacts on patients and families alike. But with committed federal and state support, we can change the trajectory.
Our message to lawmakers was simple and powerful:
Support policies that invest in research to improve treatment, prevent disease progression, and ultimately discover a cure.
With the backing of our elected officials, we can do so much more to accelerate progress toward a future free of Parkinson’s.
The Meetings
Time was short, and the halls were full of others hoping to speak with their legislators. Still, our conversations were meaningful. Senator Rick Scott met with us personally, spoke about the issues, took photos, and showed genuine interest in our advocacy. It was an honor to see him again, having previously appeared on my show:
Q & A with Sharon’s son, George. Episode 19 Special Guest: United States Senator, Rick Scott. Florida. https://youtu.be/q2N-qHC-zsc
I shared my mother’s story—her fight, our journey, and why I advocate so fiercely today. Though I was drained from travel and lack of sleep, the passion of fellow advocates inspired me. Some meetings were with staffers rather than elected officials, but I truly hope they share our message and urgency with their bosses.
Reception & Recognition
Later that evening, we attended a 5:30 PM reception—a deeply moving and memorable part of the trip. I finally met more than 100 fellow advocates, people with Parkinson’s, and friends I had only known through screens. My heart was full. I think I left with 60 photos and memories that will take a year to post!
The event also honored key lawmakers supporting the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Disease, including:
- Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL)
- Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (VA)
- Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY)
- Senator Chris Murphy (CT)
- Senator Shelley Moore Capito (WV)
It was surreal to speak with them, laugh, share stories, and take photos together. Another moment I’ll never forget.
Q & A with Sharon’s son, George Ep 4: Special Guest – U.S. Rep Paul D. Tonko https://youtu.be/YRelmNdHq-U
Q & A with Sharon’s son, George. Episode 199: Special Guest United States Congressman Gus Bilirakis, The National Plan to End Parkinson’s Disease https://youtu.be/8bXa-VpvtBs
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 — House Meetings
Wednesday was dedicated to meetings with House Representatives from Florida, including:
- Rep. Debbie Wasserman-Schultz
- Rep. Lois Frankel
- Rep. Jared Moskowitz
We started the day with breakfast and remarks from the APDA spokesperson—another inspiring moment. It was an honor to spend time with leaders from organizations doing incredible work:
- The Michael J. Fox Foundation
- American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)
- PMD Alliance
- Parkinson’s Foundation
- Lewy Body Dementia Association
Later that morning, I had the chance to tour some of D.C.’s most iconic landmarks—the White House, Capitol, and museums—and spend time with Dr. Rebecca Gilbert, APDA’s Chief Mission Officer and a guest on my show. Her insight, warmth, and dedication are unmatched.
Q & A with Sharon’s son, George. Episode 239: Special Guest Rebecca Gilbert, MD, PhD, APDA Chief Mission Officer, American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA): Early signs of Parkinson’s Disease/Non-motor symptoms of PD
https://youtu.be/lpwNInCsWAI
The rest of the day was spent visiting House offices. Though we met only with staffers this time, we made sure our message was loud and clear: Parkinson’s awareness and finding a cure must be a national priority.
The Return & The Real Work Ahead
After the meetings, I returned to the hotel, then to the airport, and safely landed back in Florida. But let me be clear—the trip may have ended, but the real work has only just begun.
Now is the time to amplify our voices. Contact your representatives, senators, local councilmembers, commissioners, mayors—anyone who will listen. We need everyone in this fight. Because:
TOGETHER, OUR VOICES ARE STRONGER.
Final Thanks
One more time—thank you to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, especially the entire Policy Division. This opportunity meant the world to me, and I will never forget it.
I am forever grateful.
Let’s keep going. Let’s keep fighting.
Until there is a cure.
Sharon’s Son,
George