Slaughter Supports New Parkinson’s Disease Outreach Campaign

CHICAGO – To educate and inform the public about Parkinson’s disease, state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, supported legislation to create the Parkinson’s Disease Public Awareness and Education Program.

“Parkinson’s disease affects thousands of Illinoisans, and I think it is extremely important that we make sure that we’re all adequately informed about the warning signs of the disease and how to prevent it,” said Slaughter. “For far too long, this painful condition has been misunderstood and the public was unaware of its complexities and treatments. Creating this educational campaign will help families more easily identify signs of the disease and allow for early intervention.”

Slaughter supported House Bill 3247, which establishes the Parkinson’s Disease Public Awareness and Education Program. The bill passed in both the House and Senate and was recently signed into law. The program will consist of a comprehensive outreach campaign that will inform the public of the causes of the disease, treatment options and how to change one’s lifestyle to cope with the disease. In addition to educating the public, the legislation also creates new curricula for first responders so that they may better assist those with the condition.

“Those who suffer from Parkinson’s, as well as their loved ones, can benefit from living in a community that understands some of the struggles they face,” said Slaughter. “We can better serve one another if we truly understand what this disease is and what it does. I believe that this outreach campaign will be impactful in the lives of many members of our community and families across Illinois.”