Each year 60,000 Americans are diagnosed - one every nine minutes - with Parkinson's disease. Approximately 40 percent are under the age of 60, effectively removing them from the work force. Parkinson's victims remain alive though incapacitated for many years (sometimes decades) requiring family members to be diverted from the work force by their role as caregivers. We must continue to make the case that every dollar invested in Parkinson's disease will yield savings in the long-term and will improve the quality of life for many Americans.

Can it be cured? Not yet but science indicates we are on the cusp of a breakthrough that could bring both significant therapies to help those already afflicted, and a far better understanding of the causes of the disease. We know that continued funding for research will bring us closer to breakthroughs - and we know that they will lead to a cure. With your support, we will find the cure. The information regarding Parkinson's disease was taken from information provided by PAN as a public service.

For more information on Parkinson's disease and how you can help, visit PAN's website www.parkinsonsaction.org or e-mail them at info@parkinsonsaction.org.