My Father, My Brother, and Me
Frontline Examines Parkinson’s Disease
- Frontline: My Father, My Brother and Me
- • You can watch the full program online, as well as selected interviews.
Parkinson’s disease is the nation’s second most common neurological disorder, after Alzheimer’s disease. Beginning with the story of his own Parkinson’s diagnosis several years ago, Frontline’s Dave Iverson explores current research in My Father, My Brother and Me.
Scientists believe that Parkinson’s disease could hold the key to unlocking the secrets of the rest of the major brain diseases that afflict millions each year. Iverson—whose father and brother also were diagnosed with a familial form of Parkinson’s—talks to scientists on the cutting edge of new cures and therapies for Parkinson’s as well as a number of other major neurological conditions. And he has intimate conversations with fellow Parkinson’s sufferers like actor Michael J. Fox and writer Michael Kinsley.
Kentucky Resources
Finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease may still be on the distant horizon, but in the interim, millions of Americans find ways to live with the condition. Approximately 12,000 individuals in Kentucky have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and each year an additional 600 Kentuckians will be diagnosed. A variety of local resources are available to help patients and families cope.
The 
Kentucky Parkinson’s Disease Information and Referral Center, a joint collaboration between University of Kentucky HealthCare and the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, provides information regarding Parkinson’s disease for those diagnosed with the disease as well as family members and caregivers. The center also provides physician and service referrals and educational programs. In addition, the center develops and maintains support groups across the state. Appointments and information are available at (859) 257-APDA (2732) or toll free at (866) 554-APDA (2732).
The 
Parkinson Support Center of Kentuckiana
has a web site with information on the disease, a glossary of medical terms, and a listing of Louisville support groups. Answers and support are also available from the center’s Parkinson Partners, volunteers who either have Parkinson’s disease or are caregivers for a Parkinson’s patient.
The Tri-State Parkinson’s Wellness Chapter in Cincinnati serves parts of Kentucky.
The 
American Parkinson Disease Association is an excellent resource for patient information, with information on risk factors, treatment, and treatment complications. The APDA web site also has a web page for the National Young Onset Center, for those under 45 who are diagnosed with the disease.
