Health care professionals, therapists, volunteers, care partners and those living with Parkinson’s disease are invited to a morning of education, empowerment, and energy at the annual Hope Parkinson Symposium on Friday, Feb. 7 at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre at Royal Palm Square in Fort Myers.

Seating is limited, and pre-registration is required. Registration fees of $20 per person includes beverages, a deluxe lunch buffet, and dessert.

Dr. Julie Schwartzbard

An optional pre-event lecture at 10 a.m. by movement disorder specialist Dr. Julie Schwartzbard will present “Recognizing Off Periods in Parkinson’s and the Role of a Unique Treatment Option.”

Leslie Gibson-Weiland, RN

The Symposium begins at 11 a.m. with award-winning speaker and humor therapist Leslie Gibson-Weiland, RN discussing “The Positive Power of Humor, Hope, and Healing.”

Nikolaus McFarland, MD, PhD

The featured speaker is Nikolaus McFarland, M.D., Ph.D., a movement specialist at University of Florida Center for Movement Disorders and Neurorestoration Chief, Movement Disorder Division, Associate Professor of Neurology. Dr. McFarland will present “What’s New in Medical Care, Research and Treatments for PD.”

Pete and Kelly Gaylord

The event concludes with “Care Partner Communication Tips and Tricks” with Pete and Kelly Gaylord.

Symposium exhibitors include FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers, Hope Healthcare, Lee Health Rehabilitation Services, and US WorldMeds. The pre-symposium lecture Presenting Sponsor is ACORDA Therapeutics. Supporting sponsors include Abbott, ACADIA Pharmaceuticals, Boston Scientific, and Personal Training by Jeri Ann.