The summer has gotten off to a slow start. I don’t remember a spring/summer that has been so rainy and cold. As we enter into July, I’m hoping for clear blue skies and warm weather. I know the sun and warmth can rejuvenate the inner spirit and the soul. The summer months are also an excellent time to connect with Family. Like most of us, I will spend a lot of time this summer with my immediate family and relatives at picnics, wedding, and other outdoor events. There will also be time spent with my “other” family - my Parkinson’s family. I know the CAP community and support groups have become a second family to many, including Michelle and myself.  

CAP’s goal as an organization has always been to bring people together. We need to help and support one another, as we fight this difficult disease. Although the journey with Parkinson’s will never be easy, know that “you are not alone” in fighting this disease. You are not alone in your fight. Someone else feels your pain and understands what you’re going through. If you or a family member has Parkinson’s, please know that we all struggle together, hopefully, becoming each other’s beacon of hope. 

Take some time this summer to slow down, enjoy the easy pace of life, and if you haven’t already, attend one of our support groups where you can receive encouragement, comfort, and advice. Currently, CAP has Support Group Chapters in Branford, Glastonbury, and Southbury. 

CAP is trying to help our members live lives today while trying to find a cure for tomorrow. If you have Parkinson’s, please download a resource guide on our website at www.parkinsonsct.org. Contributors of this first edition are Raymond Grasso, Connecticut Parkinson’s Working Group, Michelle Hespeler, Beat PD Today, Inc., Allyson Kinney, Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s, and Chad Wickland, US WorldMeds. It is dedicated to Connecticut’s People with Parkinson’s and their Caregivers in the hope that it helps light the way on their journey of joy and challenges as they strive mightily to live as well as possible. Because we ourselves are on the same journey, we remember how comforting and meaningful it is to know that we are not alone.

Warm Regards,

Karl C. Hespeler
Chairman 
860-490-0251
Karl@Parkinsonsct.org