Hi friends and family!  Thanks for visiting my fundraising page. 

I'm raising money for the Parkinson's Institute because over the past 5+ years I've watched my best friend's dad fight a neurological disorder that is increasingly inhibiting his movement, communication, balance, and overall independence. Mark's efforts to rise above these new limitations has been downright inspirational. it seems that for every ability his condition has impeded - the ability to work, drive, run, sing etc  - he has sought a new ability -  yoga, pilates, volunteer work, travel, photography, etc. Mark has always been a model of strength, kindness, and compassion for me and it is very difficult to watch the pain and frustration surrounding his disease.

Initially Mark was diagnosed with Parkinson's (in '02) but since then doctors have removed that label and concluded that he has a related disease about which they know very little.

That's why I have chosen the Parkinson's Institute. Their clinical research dept. has world-renowned scientists, neurologists, physicians, epidemiologists and toxicologists doing groundbreaking research in the field of neurological diseases. My hope is that, with our support, the medical world will better understand Mark's condition and work towards prevention and a cure.

On November 9th, I'll be running for Parkinson's on World Run Day here in Boston. My goal is to raise $3000 by then, but there's no cut off date.  Any amount, even $10, will make a difference. 

if you can't donate now, another idea is to send this page to 5 of your friends. Firstgiving.com is simple, fast, and secure.

Many thanks for your support!

Melinda

**UPDATE** Wow! This is amazing! Thank you everyone for your generous donations. We've made it 1/2 way to my fundraising target. Please share this with anyone and everyone - because the run is on Sunday! Maybe we can make it to $2000 by then.