Photo Credit: Memorial HermannHealth
Finding Strength Together: Parkinson’s Community celebrates Resilience at Annual Tea Party
Living with Parkinson’s disease can bring challenges that extend far beyond physical symptoms. But for those navigating the disease, having a strong support system, access to resources and a community that understands can make a meaningful difference.
That spirit of connection and resilience took center stage Friday at the annual TIRR Memorial Hermann Parkinson’s Tea Party, held at TIRR Memorial Hermann The Woodlands campus.
The afternoon gathering brought together individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, their caregivers and family members for an opportunity to connect, learn and celebrate the strength of the Parkinson’s community.
“It’s really about bringing people with Parkinson’s together and helping them know that we are a Parkinson’s community,” said Nora Harrigan, a physical therapist at TIRR Memorial Hermann The Woodlands and leader of the Parkinson’s support group.
Although the support group is based at TIRR Memorial Hermann, it extends well beyond the facility’s patients. The group welcomes anyone in the community living with Parkinson’s disease, as well as family members and caregivers seeking education, resources and emotional support.
The group has been connecting individuals and families for approximately 13 years, helping them navigate the challenges of Parkinson’s while building relationships with others who understand their experiences.
“In addition to supporting our patients, we also support people with Parkinson’s who are part of other community groups,” Harrigan said. “In a way, I would say that our Parkinson’s support group here at TIRR brings the community, the Parkinson’s community, together.”
The group also serves as a bridge to other local resources and programs, including the Houston Area Parkinson Society (HAPS), Parky Wives support group, and Rock Steady Boxing, a specialized boxing exercise program designed for people with Parkinson’s.
These connections help individuals find opportunities to stay active, build friendships and remain engaged in their community. The annual tea party is an extension of that mission.
“This annual tea party is actually just that, a celebration of bringing people with Parkinson’s together and giving joy to the caregiver and their families,” Harrigan said.
Attendees also had an opportunity to hear from a movement disorder specialist, Dr. Allison Boyle, about the latest research in Parkinson’s disease. Music was another highlight, with local students, Josh and Ellie Harrigan, performing piano and violin.
Harrigan believes music can play an important role in uplifting people living with Parkinson’s, making it a meaningful addition to the celebration.
Ultimately, the message behind this year’s gathering was simple: No one should have to navigate Parkinson’s disease alone.
Interested in joining the Parkinson’s community? The TIRR Memorial Hermann Parkinson’s support group welcomes all individuals affected by Parkinson’s. Those interested in learning more about the group and available resources can contact Nora Harrigan, at Nora.Harrigan@memorialhermann.org.
Source: Memorial Hermann
