Parkinson's Disease is a disorder of the central nervous system. It involves primarily a degeneration of specific nerve cells deep in the area of the brain called the basal ganglia. These cells make the neurochemical dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for messages in the brain that control normal movement. When there is no dopamine, the end result is stiffness, tremor and balance problems, among additional problems. Doctors are not certain of the cause of this disorder. No tests are available to diagnose Parkinson's Disease and there is no cure at the present time. Treatment varies from person to person and focuses on symptom management.

Support Groups have been successful in helping those with Parkinson's Disease obtain information and improve their quality of life. The Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets every third Wednesday of each month, 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm, at the John P. Murtha Neuroscience and Pain Institute (Suite 2400), Johnstown, PA.

The support group at the John P. Murtha Neuroscience & Pain Institute is designed to help those who have the disease, their family and loved ones to find more information to develop a better knowledge and understanding of the disease. The goals of the group are:

• Offer friendship, support and encouragement - to both the person with Parkinson's & those that care for them;

• To gain as much information as possible;

• Provide a warm supportive atmosphere in which everyone feels equally important

The Parkinson's Disease Support Group - "A Better Understanding Through Sharing Will Help To Deal and Cope with Parkinson's Disease".

For more information, please call 814-269-5201.

Check to see when the next support group meets: Calendar of Events.