Hello Friends of the PAA,
It’s that time of year again when we reflect and give thanks for our blessings, as well as remember others in need. This year has been a very busy and highly productive time for the Parkinson Association of Alabama, Inc. (PAA). I am more than pleased with our accomplishments and I would like to share a few of the highlights with you.
I think we have seen monumental growth in three key areas, not only in 2023 but during my four-year tenure as president. These areas include:
Stronger partnerships with new and established supporters that have enabled the PAA to extend its presence throughout the state, from Huntsville to Mobile, and Clanton to Alexander City. The engagement of additional partnerships with complementary resources had a huge impact on this expansion. I want to recognize the American Parkinson's Disease Association, UAB, MedHelp, Rock Steady Boxing, PD Fight Club, and Team Rowland Road Series for their support and collaboration with the PAA.
Re-branding of the PAA website, the use of social media and newsletters brought increased and much-needed attention to the organization. The PAA Resource Center website was re-launched, making it easy for the newly diagnosed to learn more about Parkinson's Disease. The use of social media, newsletters, and hosting annual symposiums enabled many people across Alabama to connect with local support groups and neurologists to gain access to basic information and educational material. The expansion of the Parkinson's Disease Resource Center and Care Navigator Programs emphasized our vision and dedication to the three C's: Care, Community, and a Cure for Parkinson’s Disease.
Care: We believe in access to quality healthcare for all Alabamians, providing information and awareness to make the best-informed decisions with the latest advancements. We believe comprehensive care, including exercise is the key to living well with Parkinson’s disease.
Community: We believe community connectedness through support and camaraderie equips those impacted by Parkinson’s and their caregivers with a network of resources and encouragement to ensure no one travels this journey alone.
Cure: We believe in supporting Alabama’s quality research programs to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease. The PAA partners with UAB and other Alabama-based hospitals through grants and donations, making research for a cure possible.
Financial Stability. Rebranding brought more awareness to Parkinson’s disease and the PAA. With this improved awareness, we saw increased partnerships and sponsorships, amplifying our ability to expand the PAA’s reach statewide. The additional funding helped PAA purchase much-needed equipment for UAB researchers who work tirelessly to find a cure for PD. For more than four years in a row, the PAA has funded a pre-doctoral scholarship for PD research students. More than $64,000 has been made available to those in need of movement-based scholarships across the state. The Parkinson Disease Resource Center and Care Navigation programs grew and became an asset to assist people suffering from PD, their caregivers, and family members seeking quality information to help their loved ones. As the association grows we have added much-needed staff, including our first-ever full-time Executive Director and four vital support employees.
Without the support of our partners, friends, and donors the PAA would not be able to sustain our mission of support for people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers across the state. Today, there are approximately 16,000 Alabamians in an all-out fistfight with PD. Remember, all contributions to our association stay in Alabama, helping people here live quality lives, while also providing research funding to zero in on a cure. Please consider purchasing a Fighting for Parkinson car tag and show your support for the PAA.
I am so very proud of how far the PAA has come in four short years. I hope that I am leaving the association financially sound and poised for future growth across the state. There are so many people with PD who need our help and the PAA is trying to walk the walk each day by going into communities and making our presence felt.
As we all know, Mrs. Bibby Bailey, Executive Director and CEO is the engine that makes this train run. I was part of the committee that hired Bibby four years ago and I quickly learned only to apply the brakes if needed. Seriously, I stepped to the side and let Bibby do her job and a fine job she has done in executing the vision of our Board of Directors. Thank you, Bibby, for your leadership, encouragement, and most of all, your tireless work ethic.
So, as I close out my Presidency of the PAA this month, I want you to know how proud I am of the progress made during the last four years. We've given record dollars to support research, our organization has boomed with tremendous growth and we have greatly extended our outreach across the state.
I am so thankful for the support of my entire family, especially my wife, Stacy, who has given of herself not only to support me as president but as someone to love and care for me as a Parkinson's patient. It can make life quite difficult at times. Thank you. I love you! I've also made many new friendships and leaned on dependable, life-long friends for support. I eagerly look forward to being a part of the future achievements of the PAA. I thank you all, and I pray that one day very soon the PAA will help find a cure, maybe right here in Birmingham.
Best,
Brian Corbett
President, Parkinson Association of Alabama, Inc.