Contacts:
Michael Driscoll
September 1, 1998

ATLANTA CHAPTER OF AMERICAN PARKINSON'S DISEASE ASSOCIATION IS GOING TO
"MAKE IT HAPPEN"


Question: What would it take to get 15 corporations, over 1,000 people including physicians, nurses, medical activists, and a comedian all in one place?

Answer: The 13th Annual "Make It Happen" 5K Run/Walk to find a cure for Parkinson's Disease, of course!

On Sept. 26, the Atlanta chapter of the American Parkinson's Disease Association (APDA) will hold its 13th Annual 5K Run/Walk at Wesley Woods Center of Emory University to fund Parkinson's Disease research.

The day will be kicked off with registration from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. and a pre-race continental breakfast. Runners will make their way through the back roads of the lush Wesley Woods course at 10 a.m., while walkers will begin their leisurely journey at 10:15 am. Registration for the walk is $15.

This year, the Atlanta chapter is offering an incentive program for individuals and groups wanting to raise money for Parkinson's disease research. Groups with $500 or more combined sponsorship will receive free registration and a special gift as well as recognition from the Atlanta chapter. Individuals will receive prizes ranging from colored ribbons of excellence to free raffle tickets and prizes. Church organizations, fraternities, sororities and civic groups are encouraged to come.

Special events throughout the day include: a raffle with prizes ranging from discounted meals to donated items from prestigious Georgia industries and individuals; a keynote address on "New Advances in Parkinson's Treatment--Today and Tomorrow" by Dr. Ray Watts, professor of Neurology at the Emory University School of Medicine; and comedy provided by actor Rob Cleveland.

With 3 million people living with Parkinson's and Parkinson's-like disorders, and with a cure within reach, the Atlanta chapter hopes to reach a goal of 1,013 walkers (13th anniversary of the run/walk) and $75,000 raised for research.

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Editor's Note: Patients with PD who are planning to walk may be available for interview in your area.

For more general information on The Robert W. Woodruff Health Sciences Center, call Health Sciences Communication's Office at 404-727-5686, or send e-mail to hsnews@emory.edu.


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