Newly Diagnosed PD Education

Education for Those Newly Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease

If you or someone close to you has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you are likely experiencing many emotions and have many concerns and questions. We are here to help you meet the challenge of PD with support, optimism and hope. We encourage you to attend these programs and support services available through the MAPC.

As a Parkinson Foundation Center of Excellence we are pleased to provide you with the following educational resource opportunities

Newly Diagnosed Education Class

This one-time class is presented as a foundational layer of general understanding of Parkinson’s disease. Each class includes a guest speaker, a physician or an outpatient therapist. The goal for the class is for you to know that you are not alone! This class is a great prerequisite for Parkinson Disease 101 and 202.

PD SELF (Self Efficacy Learning Forum)

PD SELF is a national program of Project Spark. This class is for people diagnosed with PD, three years or less, and their care partners. The class presents an in-depth understanding of the disease and the self-efficacy tools to manage it with confidence. The program consists of 8 class sessions and full attendance is requested and appreciated. For more information or to register contact Patty Hatton (602) 406-3840 or Patrice.Hatton@DignityHealth.org.

Parkinson Disease 101

This four-week seminar course for people with Parkinson’s disease and their families. It meets once a week for two hours. The course covers basic neurology and the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, as well as medication, nutrition, exercise, mind-body connections such as sleep disorders and depression, caregiving, how to talk to your doctor, and any other topics of interest to the group. For more information or to register contact Darolyn O’Donnell at (602) 406-6903 or Darolyn.O’Donnell@DignityHealth.org.

Parkinson Disease 202

This four-week seminar course provides in-depth information and practical suggestions concentrating on the most bothersome non-motor symptoms that impact the quality of life of people living with Parkinson’s disease. Topics covered include fatigue and managing energy, working through depression and anxiety, adapting to cognitive changes, and keeping relationships healthy and balanced. For more information or to register contact Darolyn O’Donnell at (602) 406-6903 or Darolyn.O’Donnell@DignityHealth.org.

Lunch and Learn Series

Monthly presentation of pertinent topics related to living with Parkinson’s disease. Typically held during the lunch hour, 12 – 1 pm Arizona Time, on the 4th Friday of the month. Previously recorded Lunch and Learn topics can be found here(PUT LINK HERE). For more information or to register contact Kristina Watts at (602) 406-4921 or Kristina.Watts@DignityHealth.org.

Contact Information

Darolyn O’Donnell
Phone: (602) 406-6903
Email: Darolyn.O’Donnell@DignityHealth.org

Patty Hatton
Phone: (602) 406-3840
Email: Patrice.Hatton@DignityHealth.org

Kristina Watts
Phone: (602) 406-4921
Email: Kristina.Watts@DignityHealth.org