About Parkinson’s Community Los Angeles (PCLA)
PCLA’s Impact By the Numbers
We’ve hosted more than thousands of people at our virtual and live events, helping those with Parkinson’s live better and connect with the PD community.
Our Information & Referral staff helps connect Angelenos to resources, support groups, exercises classes, clinical trials, research and more.
Supporting the community through medical device donations, free ride grants to get to doctor’s appointments, events, support groups, local resources and programs.
The PCLA Story
PCLA became an official 501(c)(3) in 2016. Our volunteer board began with people living with Parkinson’s and PD advocates who believed in the possibility of a life filled with joy, even in the face of a non-curable diagnosis.
We recognize that maintaining the hope and positivity needed to move forward and live a balanced life can be a constant challenge, which is why we focus on maximizing the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s today.
Mission
PCLA’s mission is to empower lives impacted by Parkinson’s by offering resources, strategies, and cultivating relationships.
Vision
PCLA’s vision is to be the wellness resource trusted by people impacted by Parkinson’s.
Purpose
PCLA’s is to inspire people impacted by Parkinson’s. We promise to always be there to help navigate your journey with Parkinson's.
Meet the PCLA Team
Our team consists of a voluntary Board of Directors, Honorary Board Members, and voluntary Medical Advisory Board.
Board of Directors
Parkinson’s advocate since 2000; speaker, trainer & expert in exercise strategies to improve life with Parkinson’s.
PD advocate & PCLA founder who leads a support group started by her late husband after his Parkinson’s diagnosis.
Leads national events, supports nonprofits, and advocates for Parkinson’s inspired by a family connection.
Educator & performer with PD, stays active through music, exercise, healthy living & climate advocacy.
Speech pathologist, professor & PD advocate, leading neuro rehab and support groups.
Lawyer & PD advocate, joined the PCLA board after supporting his late wife Barbara, a founding member.
LA lawyer & PR expert, joined PCLA after her mother’s 2022 PD diagnosis; she also sings with Angel City Chorale.
Honorary Board
Retired social worker & PD advocate, mentors young women and supports health causes through her family foundation.
PD care partner & advocate, co-leads support groups and is a founding board member of PCLA with husband Mike.
PD activist & former APDA LA president, led efforts raising $2M and launched the first U.S. PD registry in CA.
COO & PD advocate, leads support groups and brings 20+ yrs of finance/ops experience across top firms.
Medical Advisory Board
Cedars-Sinai neurology leader, pioneered DBS for PD and researches non-motor Parkinson’s symptoms.
UCLA neurologist, specializes in PD care, DBS, and rehab therapies, with a focus on team-based treatment.
USC neurologist, specializes in movement disorders and deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s treatment.
Movement Disorders specialist, advises PCLA on PD care and medical issues affecting the Parkinson’s community.
Gastroenterologist, specializes in GI issues in Parkinson’s and neurodegenerative disorders.
Neurologist, directs the Pacific Movement Disorders Center, specializing in Parkinson’s care.
Chief of Psychology and Neuropsychology, & the Director of Clinical Training in Neuropsychology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Donate Today,
Change Lives Forever
PCLA is powered by generous contributions from people like you.
Please consider donating today so we can continue to provide critical support to those impacted by Parkinson’s.