Mega Doctor News
EDINBURG, Texas – Living with Parkinson’s disease is often hard to envision at the moment of diagnosis. The condition is complex and unpredictable, affecting far more than movement alone.
While symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed motion are commonly recognized, many people with Parkinson’s also face non-motor challenges, including sleep disturbances, chronic pain, fatigue, anxiety and depression—symptoms that can be just as disruptive to daily life.
“Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that gradually worsens over time,” says Abby Garza-Leal, OTR, OTD, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, South Texas Health System (STHS) McAllen. “Early signs may be subtle and easily overlooked, sometimes beginning with a slight tremor in one hand, the foot or even the jaw. As the disease advances, individuals may experience increased muscle rigidity, reduced mobility and difficulty with balance and coordination. These changes can significantly raise the risk of falls and interfere with independence.”
Second only to Alzheimer’s disease among neurodegenerative conditions, Parkinson’s affects a substantial and growing number of Americans.
While roughly 500,000 people have received a formal diagnosis, experts believe the true number is much higher due to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis. Current estimates suggest that close to one million people may be living with Parkinson’s today, with projections indicating a continued rise in cases over the coming years.
“The impact of Parkinson’s extends well beyond the individual diagnosed,” says Garza, who runs STHS McAllen’s monthly Parkinson’s Support Group. “As symptoms progress, families and caregivers often shoulder increasing responsibilities, navigating emotional stress, financial strain and logistical challenges. Spouses, children and other loved ones may experience caregiver burnout, shifts in family dynamics and difficult decisions related to care and support, underscoring that Parkinson’s is a disease that affects entire families, not just patients.
To help raise awareness of the progressive neurodegenerative disorder in the Rio Grande Valley this Parkinson’s Awareness Month, STHS will host its first-ever Parkinson’s Walk & Talk.
Taking place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., in the main parking lot of STHS Edinburg, the community event will highlight the importance of staying active while living with Parkinson’s. It will provide a supportive environment where individuals with Parkinson’s, their families and caregivers can connect, share experiences and build community.
Participants will have the opportunity to visit educational stations led by occupational, physical and speech therapists, who will offer practical strategies to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms and support overall quality of life.
“Living with Parkinson’s isn’t something anyone should face alone; it truly takes a village,” says Garza-Leal. “By coming together as a community, we can support one another, share resources and empower individuals and families with the tools and encouragement they need to continue living active, meaningful lives.”
The event is open to the public and free to attend, and no registration is required. For complete details about the Parkinson’s Walk & Talk, visit the STHS Facebook Events page.
To learn more about the rehabilitation services available through STHS, including the Parkinson’s Support Group, visit southtexashealthsystem.com.
| Who: | South Texas Health System |
| What: | Parkinson’s Walk & Talk Community Event |
| When: | Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 9:00– 11:00 a.m. |
| Where: | Main Parking LotSouth Texas Health System Edinburg1102 W. Trenton Rd.Edinburg, TX 78539 |
