Parkinson's Policy Podcast: Dr. Sara Whittingham

Parkinson's Policy Podcast: Dr. Sara Whittingham

“Oh crap.” 😮 It’s the unfiltered thought so many people have after a diagnosis, and it’s exactly why Dr. Sara Whittingham used it to title her incredible book, Oh Crap! It's Parkinson's: A Rebel's Guide to Taking Back Control of Your Life. We recently interviewed Sara on the Parkinson’s Policy Podcast, and her energy is absolutely infectious! As an Air Force veteran, M.D., mom, and Ironman triathlete living with PD, Sara is a force of nature. In this episode, we talk about: Shifting the mindset from "patient" to "person with agency." The power of finding your "outrageous goals" and purpose. How she’s taking the rebel fight all the way to Washington, D.C., to advocate for better care and research. If you or a loved one are navigating this journey, Sara’s blend of medical insight, lived experience, and grit is exactly what you need to hear today.

Parkinson’s Policy Podcast Episode 8: Anne Hubbard (APDA)

In this episode of the Parkinson’s Policy Podcast, we sit down with Anne Hubbard, Chief Public Policy Officer to discuss the latest policy issues impacting the Parkinson’s community. From advocacy priorities and healthcare access to ongoing legislative efforts, Anne shares insights into how policy can shape better outcomes for people living with Parkinson’s and their families. Tune in for an informative conversation on the work being done to advance support, research, and patient-centered care.

Vermont! First State to Pass Ban on Parkinson's-Linked Pesticide Paraquat

In this episode of the Parkinson’s Policy Podcast, we sit down with Representative Brian Cina, a Vermont legislator and sponsor of the bill to ban paraquat, a widely used herbicide linked to Parkinson’s disease and other serious health concerns. We discuss the growing body of research connecting environmental toxins to Parkinson’s, the policy efforts underway in Vermont, and why advocates, scientists, patients, and lawmakers are pushing for stronger protections against harmful chemical exposure. Rep. Cina shares insights into the legislative process, the challenges of advancing environmental health policy, and why public awareness and grassroots advocacy matter. This conversation highlights the intersection of science, public health, and policy—and the importance of taking action to reduce exposure to potentially dangerous environmental chemicals.

Parkinson’s Policy Podcast Episode 7: Deborah Swerdlow & Ken Chason (Parkinson's Foundation)

In this episode of the Parkinson’s Policy Podcast, we sit down with Deborah Swerdlow, Head of Policy at the Parkinson’s Foundation, and Ken Chason, a dedicated patient advocate and member of the Foundation’s Patient Policy Advisory Council (PPAC), for a timely and insightful conversation on the future of Parkinson’s policy. Together, we explore the most pressing policy challenges impacting the Parkinson’s community today, from access to care and affordability of treatments to the need for increased research funding and stronger support systems for patients and caregivers. Deborah shares an inside look at how policy priorities are shaped at the Foundation, while Ken brings a powerful, lived-experience perspective on why patient voices must remain central to policymaking. We also dive into what needs to happen next at both the state and federal levels to drive meaningful change, highlighting opportunities for advocacy and ways listeners can get involved. Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s, caring for someone who is, or working in healthcare, policy, or advocacy, this episode offers valuable insights into how policy decisions shape real-world outcomes, and how you can be part of the solution. More information for on the Parkinson’s Foundation’s policy work can be found here:  https://www.parkinson.org/how-to-help/policy-advocacy-priorities

Parkinson’s Policy Podcast Episode 6: Representative Hogan

In this episode of our Parkinson’s Policy Podcast, we sit down with Rep. Hogan of Pennsylvania to discuss HB1135, a bill aimed at prohibiting the use of paraquat, a widely debated herbicide linked to increased Parkinson’s risk. We explore the science behind paraquat, why this legislation matters for public health, and how advocates and constituents can effectively mobilize support. Rep. Hogan shares insights on the policymaking process and practical ways listeners can get involved in pushing for meaningful change.