An interview with Dr. Maureen Whelihan, BEST treatment options to keep the Parkinson’s patient thriving!
Please tell me a little about your background.
I am an OBGYN physician for 30yrs who has learned more about Parkinson’s than I ever wanted to know after I met my 2nd husband (boyfriend at the time) in 2015.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
I am familiar with lobbying the needs for the women of America as a provider of women’s health. I hope to use these same skills to advocate for the Parkinson’s patient in Tallahassee and DC.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
When I met my man in 2015, I noticed his R hand tremor during a lunch date – did he need a drink? Was this benign essential tremor? I asked – he mentioned that happened when he got nervous at business meetings when addressing his staff. I sent him for evaluation and the dx was apparent to the neurologist > Parkinson’s. Since then, I have always reading studies and researching treatments and prevention to keep him functioning to the best of his abilities.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
Patients need to be motivated to exercise – every day. Understand all treatments when medications become less beneficial. Chuck had MR Focused Ultrasound – because I was familiar with the use of this technology in ablating fibroids (uterus) and contacted one of the key Radiologists in this technology – Suzanne Leblang MD. Sadly, his neurologist at the time was unfamiliar and did not seem motivated to learn more. We changed neurologists at that time.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
I strongly recommend – Pilates, massage therapy and the Boxbollen!
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
I sit on a “Voices of Parkinson’s” Counsel with the APDA and I am saddened by the fact that many participants (patients) have no idea of the treatments available. I am on counsel as a caregiver and physician. My wish is that all neurologists have a basic understanding of the advances available for the Parkinson’s patient – perhaps part of their MOC (board recert each year)
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
Earlier recognition of the soft signs may help with starting meds to preserve dopamine rather than waiting till symptoms/tremor begins which is generally 90% depleted. When I met my “boyfriend” in 2013 – he was 55yo and indicated that he did not have a sense of smell for 8 yrs. I knew that was not normal but did not know what should be investigated – until I learned about Parkinson’s. All patients should be asked these questions in a typical ROS (review of symptoms) that are required each year at the doctor’s visit. (We married in 2021)
What events do you participate in?
Lots of medical conferences. Past President of the Palm Beach County Medical Society. Past State Legislative Chair for ACOG District XII, Past President of the Florida OBGYN Society. Delegate to the Florida Medical Association. All as an OBGYN. Heading to the World Congress on Parkinson’s in Phoenix in MAY 2026
How does this also assist the caregivers?
I am the caregiver – I am living it! I talk to all of my GYN patients with Parkinson’s as well as friends who succumb to the diagnosis/disease. I also certify patients for medical marijuana in Florida as it is a certifying condition.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
www.MyGYNPractice.com sexual health happens to be one of my fields of expertise.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Helping our legislators understand the impact of the disease, the number and demographics of the involved individuals, and the value of covering treatment options including MR focused Ultrasound, functionality programs – like boxing, pilates, massage, voice therapy (OT). Diagnostic tools (inexpensive) like Doctor’s Data HAIR for heavy metals.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Raising money has always been a challenge. Just ask…..
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
My spouse.
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TogetherForSharon® In memory of my mother, Sharon to voice awareness & hope for a Parkinson’s Disease cure. Sharon’s Son, George
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Would you like to share your journey! Reach out and together our Voices are so much STRONGER!