We’re happy to announce that we’ve added four new members to our Science Advisory Board. We’re excited to have them join us and to benefit from their years of diverse experience so we can continue to help people with Parkinson’s live well today.
You can read their full bios, along with those of our other Science Advisory Board members, here.
In the meantime, here’s a quick snapshot of what inspired them to serve on the Science Advisory Board and what they like to do in their free time.
“I think back to the early days of the Foundation and the kind of research that it was funding, including Dr. Alberts’ seminal tandem bicycle study. That was the first time I really remember any organization willing to start the conversation about things that people living with Parkinson’s could do right now to take some control and improve their day-to-day quality-of-life. It’s an interesting and refreshing way to look at things. Everyone wants a cure for Parkinson’s, but the people with Parkinson’s that I work with need something that can help them right now.”
When John isn’t working on one of his many projects, you’ll find him riding around the hills of Lisbon on an old hardtail that he picked up last fall. This winter, he’ll also be taking the plunge and bringing his road bike back to Portugal so he can rack up more miles there. Finally, you may also find sampling the astonishing varieties of Portuguese wine.
“The mission of the Davis Phinney Foundation perfectly aligns with my research priorities and clinical passions. I firmly believe that all people with Parkinson’s can live an amazing and meaningful life, even with the physical and emotional challenges that often accompany the day-to-day. In my opinion, it is not a question of IF a person can live a good life with Parkinson’s, it’s a question of HOW a person can live a good life with Parkinson’s, starting NOW!” “
When Roseanne isn’t conducting research, you’ll find her enjoying life with her wonderful husband, Eric and three amazing school-age children, Ally, Ethan and Ryan. Right now, her family is about everything STAR WARS…and the force is very strong with them!
“The mission of the Davis Phinney Foundation, to “help people with Parkinson’s live well today” resonates with me. In particular, the focus to improve quality of life through education, exercise, improved sleep and non-pharmacological interventions is unique and empowering to those with Parkinson’s and their care partners. Also, I’m a huge cycling fan and am inspired by the energy and leadership of Davis and Connie.”
When Colum isn’t working and researching, you’ll find him cycling or Nordic skiing with family and friends or playing the Scottish Highland bagpipes.
“I was specifically drawn to the Davis Phinney Foundation due to their focus on thriving with Parkinson’s right now. As a physical therapist, my career is focused on collaborating with individuals to help them achieve optimal movement (right now) based on their current goals.”
When Alicia isn’t knee deep in developing community education programs, you can find her chasing her two small children and two dogs, as well as spending time with her family hiking, camping and hanging at the beach!
Welcome to the Science Advisory Board, John, Roseanne, Colum and Alicia!