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New Parkinson’s Support Group Launches in Onamia
March 26, 2026
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of Parkinson’s disease and supporting those affected by it. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can impact many aspects of daily life.
The condition develops when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine begin to decline. Dopamine is a chemical that helps control movement and coordination. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with Parkinson’s disease, and approximately 90,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. While there is currently no cure, treatment options - including medication, therapy, and lifestyle approaches - can significantly improve quality of life.
The Parkinson’s Foundation also identifies ten common early signs of Parkinson’s disease. These include tremors; changes in handwriting, often becoming smaller; loss of smell (commonly noticed with foods like bananas, dill pickles, or licorice); trouble sleeping; difficulty moving or walking; constipation; a soft or low voice or changes in speech; reduced facial expression, sometimes called a “masked face”; dizziness; and a stooped or hunched posture. These symptoms can be subtle and may not all appear at once, but recognizing early changes can help individuals seek medical guidance sooner.
With increased awareness and early recognition playing an important role, Mille Lacs Health System (MLHS) is introducing a new monthly Parkinson’s Support Group to provide education, connection, and practical strategies for living well with the condition.
The support group will meet on the second Wednesday of every month from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Key Contributor Conference Room, located just inside the main entrance on the MLHS Onamia campus. The first meeting will take place on Wednesday, April 8.
The group will be led by a team from the Rehab Department, including Jen Zimpel, Physical Therapy; Laura Bly, Occupational Therapy; and Sara Schewe, Speech Therapy. Each specialty plays an important role in Parkinson’s care. Physical therapy can help improve mobility, balance, and strength. Occupational therapy focuses on maintaining independence in daily activities. Speech therapy can address communication challenges and swallowing concerns that may develop over time.
This support group is designed to bring people together in a welcoming and informative environment. Meetings will focus on connecting individuals with others who share similar experiences, providing education, and offering practical strategies to manage symptoms and maintain independence. The group is open to individuals with Parkinson’s, caregivers, family members, and anyone seeking support.
In addition to regular meetings, guest speakers will be incorporated throughout the year to provide specialized insight. The first guest speaker will join the meeting on May 13th, when Pharmacy Resident Jerrel Siazon will be available to answer questions and discuss medication options commonly used in Parkinson’s treatment.
Staying informed and connected can make a meaningful difference for those living with Parkinson’s. Support groups offer not only education, but also encouragement, shared understanding, and a sense of community.
For more information or questions about the Parkinson’s Support Group, please call 320-532-2529. Or, visit www.mlhealth.org/classes-events to view the full 2026 calendar of events.