By Sarah Duggan
Community Relations Director, Meadowlark
MANHATTAN, KAN. – In recognition of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Awareness Month, Meadowlark is highlighting recent advocacy efforts at the 2026 Parkinson’s Policy Forum, where Michelle Haub, MS, CCC-SLP/L, Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program Leader, helped bring national attention to the urgent need for research, prevention, and policy action.
Sponsored by the Parkinson’s Foundation of the Heartland, Haub joined more than 300 advocates from 49 states in Washington, D.C., for the annual forum—a collaborative initiative led by the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Parkinson’s Foundation, and American Parkinson Disease Association. Kansas was represented by individuals living with Parkinson’s, care partners, and professionals, all united to share personal stories and advocate for change.
Parkinson’s disease is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the United States, currently affecting more than 1.2 million Americans, with 90,000 new diagnoses each year. Kansas ranks second in the nation for cases per capita. The disease, which causes the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, leads to symptoms such as tremors, slowed movement, and balance issues, along with a range of non-motor challenges.The economic burden is also rising rapidly. A 2024 report estimates the total U.S. cost of Parkinson’s at $82.2 billion—reaching projections a decade earlier than expected.
With no cure or way to stop disease progression, advocates emphasized that immediate action is critical.During meetings with members of the Kansas congressional delegation—including staff from Representatives Tracey Mann, Sharice Davids, and Ron Estes, and Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall—advocates urged support for four key priorities:
- Increase federal research funding for Parkinson’s to $600 million annually through the National Institutes of Health by 2028.
- Ban Paraquat, a toxic herbicide linked to increased Parkinson’s risk and already prohibited in more than 70 countries.
- Support the HEALTHY BRAINS Act (H.R. 7779) to fund research on environmental contributors to Parkinson’s disease.
- Advance the National Parkinson’s Project, ensuring timely implementation of a federal strategic plan to end Parkinson’s disease.
“Sharing real-life experiences directly with lawmakers reinforces the urgency of this growing public health challenge,” said Haub. “The science is advancing, but policy support is essential to accelerate progress.”Meadowlark remains committed to supporting individuals affected by Parkinson’s through education, outreach, and exercise programs designed to improve quality of life and remove financial barriers to care.
For more information about Meadowlark’s Parkinson’s programs, contact Michelle or Katie at (785) 323-3899.