From March 15 through March 18, 2026, advocates from across the country came together to raise our voices, share our stories, and advocate for action on Parkinson’s disease. As a representative of TogetherForSharon®, in memory of my mother, Sharon, I had the honor of speaking on behalf of Florida’s Parkinson’s community.
Florida showed up strong. We made our voices heard in meetings with several representatives, including Rep. Byron Donalds, Senator Rick Scott, Representative Anna Paulina Luna, Rep. Jared Moskowitz, Senator Ashley Moody, and Representative Gus Bilirakis. In each office, we shared not only policy priorities but also personal stories—my mother’s journey, her fight with Parkinson’s, and why I continue this mission in her memory.
Our advocacy included specific, actionable asks, aligned with a nationwide network of advocates. The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) works tirelessly to ensure government policies accelerate the development of new and improved Parkinson’s therapies, while increasing the quality of life for patients, caregivers, and families.
According to the MJFF website (Public Policy Priorities), their advocacy focuses on several key areas:
- Federal Research Funding
MJFF advocates for sustained and increased investment in federal Parkinson’s research and care programs. This includes calls for significant increases in NIH research funding, as well as strengthening programs that study military-related risks and support the 110,000 U.S. veterans living with Parkinson’s. - State Research Funding
MJFF is leading a growing nationwide effort to secure state-level investment in Parkinson’s and neurodegenerative disease research. They build on historic victories in states like Texas and work annually in multiple states, often pairing research funding advocacy with complementary environmental legislation. - Banning or Restricting Parkinson’s-Linked Chemicals
A growing body of evidence links exposure to chemicals like paraquat and trichlorethylene (TCE) to the development of Parkinson’s. MJFF urges policymakers to protect community health by addressing these preventable exposures. - Understanding the Role of the Environment
MJFF supports legislation that helps researchers explore how environmental factors contribute to Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, advancing both prevention and treatment strategies. - A Whole-of-Government Approach
Authorized by The National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act, signed into federal law in July 2024, the National Plan to End Parkinson’s (NPP) is a federal initiative aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and the search for a cure. - Next Steps: Advisory Council and Reporting
Built on years of advocacy from the Parkinson’s community, MJFF is working to ensure the NPP is implemented with strong scientific direction, patient-centered priorities, and clear accountability through required reporting and the advisory council.
This forum was a powerful reminder of the strength of our community when we come together. Sharing our stories and advocating for change isn’t just about policy—it’s about hope, progress, and honoring those affected by Parkinson’s every day.
Sharon’s Son,
George
