April is Parkinson's Awareness Month and this year, Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC) is encouraging individuals affected by the disease to share their experiences through our #PDANDME (PD and Me) campaign. While most people have heard of Parkinson's disease (PD), the breadth of symptoms experienced and ripple effect the disease has on friends, family and the healthcare system is lesser understood. 

This year's campaign seeks to expand the public's understanding of Parkinson's disease by highlighting:

• The complexity of the disease. While tremors are a common symptom, people with Parkinson's experience a range of motor and non-motor symptoms. 
• The diversity of the PD community. Although PD is slightly more prevalent in men than women, it impacts people regardless of age and ethnicity. The diversity of the disease has been the cornerstone of our This is Parkinson's disease campaign in 2016-2017. 
• The community impact of the disease. We recognize that Parkinson's has an impact on those diagnosed, as well as their family and friends. We also know that the current healthcare system is often ill-equipped and too overburdened to assist patients with timely and effective disease management. With the aging population, the number of people in BC diagnosed with the condition is expected to increase, which will place further financial and social strains on families, institutions and organizations. it is for these reasons that PSBC has been advocating for improved care and continuing the search for a cure by investing in promising research. 

To learn more about the campaign, including how you can participate, visit www.parkinson.bc.ca/pdandme.