Parkinson's Resources Of Oregon Hosts Annual Sole Support For Parkinson's Walk To Expand Free Services Across Oregon (Photo) - 08/27/26
[Portland, Ore., August 27, 2026.] – Parkinson's Resources of Oregon (PRO), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families living with Parkinson's disease throughout Oregon and SW Washington, will host its annual Sole Support for Parkinson's Walk on Saturday, September 12, at the Rose Quarter Commons in Portland.
As Parkinson's disease continues to affect more individuals and families each year, the need for accessible support has never been greater. Recent research estimates that the annual economic burden of Parkinson's disease in the United States has reached $84.4 billion, reflecting the combined costs of medical care, lost income, caregiving, and reduced quality of life. Behind these numbers are thousands of families navigating the daily challenges of a progressive neurological disease.
For many, the financial strain extends well beyond healthcare expenses. Individuals living with Parkinson's often need education, emotional support, exercise programs, counseling, care partner resources, respite services, and connections to community support—resources that can be difficult to access or afford.
That's where Parkinson's Resources of Oregon (PRO) makes a difference.
PRO provides a comprehensive range of services at no cost to individuals and families, ensuring that no one has to face Parkinson's disease alone because of financial barriers. These services include support groups, educational programs, counseling, resource navigation, wellness activities, and personalized guidance tailored to each stage of the Parkinson's journey.
In addition, PRO helps remove financial barriers by offering Exercise Grants, which assist individuals in starting evidence-based exercise programs - begun in underserved communities - and help improve overall quality of life. Recognizing that many people with Parkinson's also need assistance to remain at home safely, PRO provides Home Care Grants that help offset the cost of in-home caregiving and support services, allowing individuals to maintain their independence while easing the burden on families.
Funds raised through the Sole Support for Parkinson's Walk directly support these free programs and grants, enabling PRO to reach more individuals and families with its life-changing services, all across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
"Every dollar raised helps ensure that people living with Parkinson's and their families have access to compassionate, informed support without worrying about the cost," said Executive Director Melissa Greer. "From support groups and Helpline, to access to exercise and home care grants, our goal is to help every person affected by Parkinson's live with greater confidence and hope."
The Sole Support for Parkinson's Walk welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Individuals, families, teams, and community partners are invited to walk in honor or memory of loved ones, raise awareness of Parkinson's disease, and help ensure that essential support remains available free of charge for those who need it most.
Community members, local businesses, and organizations are encouraged to register, donate, and/or become event sponsors.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Time: Registration opens at 12 noon; Walk begins at 1:30 pm
Location: Rose Quarter Commons in Portland
- Registration is free
- The City of Portland will charge a $10 parking fee per vehicle
- ~1k and ~5k routes are walker- and wheelchair-friendly
Although registration is free, fundraising is strongly encouraged. To register, find out more, or donate, go to www.solesupport.org or call the PRO toll-free Helpline: 1-800-426-6806.
About Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon:
Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO) is a donor-supported non-profit with the sole mission of improving the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers. With three locations, hundreds of volunteers, and dedicated leadership, PRO provides direct care and support to thousands of families. Working to address issues faced by Parkinson’s patients and their families, PRO can significantly improve the quality of life for everyone touched by this disease. To learn more, visit www.parkinsonsresources.org
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Follow PRO:
Instagram: @pdpronw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ParkinsonsResources
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/parkinson-s-resources-of-oregon
