An interview with Howard Weinberg: Retired physician with 50 years of Parkinson’s experience
Biography
Graduate of The Johns Hopkins University, bachelor’s degree. Graduate of Albany Medical College MD. Residency Family Practice Somerset Medical Center NJ. Diplomate ABFP
Please tell me a little about your background.
40 years of family practice. Last 35 years with Sentara Medical group Virginia Beach Va
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
My mother and sister had PD. I was diagnosed in 2024 and am LRRK 2. IU cared for over 20 years for my wife who had Parkinsonian syndrome due to high doses of antipsychotics. She died Jan 2024
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
All of the above. It took me about 1 year to redefine my life. Also, my son will probably get PD. He already has RSD. He is a psychiatrist in Florida
What type of goals does individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
Education is primary. I preach knowledge, exercise, fall prevention and immunization. I am the only Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador for a population over 1 million
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
I am trying to consolidate the therapy and exercise community in Va Beach and Norfolk. I want to institute protocols in the local hospitals for inpatients and ER patients
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
Awareness of the foundation and all it’s free assistance
What events do you participate in?
Tabled at 6 events this year including 3 medical conventions. Spoke to over 12 senior living facilities. Tabled at the Neptune festival in Va Beach. Attended a volunteer summit with the national PF
How does this also assist the caregivers?
I stress this and I have personal experience
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Learning from those who teach me
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
I let the Parkinson’s Foundation and follow their lead. They do a massive job
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Presently walking, metal detecting and doing PT, OT and ST
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
They should care about people in general. PD is the second most common neurological disease and is rising faster than Alzheimer’s
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
Mother sister, probable son
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Get educated and informed and exercise
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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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