Support Meetings
Our regular support group meetings are the first Wednesday of each month, 10:30 – 12:30. We are thrilled to return to the Fort Collins Senior Center!
Events in March–May 2026
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March Support Meeting: Sleep and Fatigue in Parkinson's March Support Meeting: Sleep and Fatigue in Parkinson's
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March 4, 2026
Prairie Sage Rooms 2&3
Sleep disturbances and persistent fatigue are among the most frustrating—and often overlooked—challenges of living with Parkinson's disease. In this interactive session, we'll explore why Parkinson's affects sleep, what fatigue really means in this context, and how both can be managed effectively. From REM sleep behavior disorder to daytime drowsiness, we'll break down the science in plain language and share practical strategies to help improve rest, boost energy, and enhance quality of life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with PD for years, this talk offers tools and insights you can use right away.
About Dr. Bridget Ollesch
My philosophy as a neurologist specializing in movement disorders is rooted in a deep commitment to putting patients first—treating each individual with compassion, respect and personalized attention. I strive to see beyond the diagnosis, understanding how conditions like Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, tremor, ataxia and Huntington’s Disease among others affect not only motor function but also emotional, social and cognitive well-being. My approach emphasizes clear communication, collaborative decision-making, and empowering patients and their families with education and support. I believe in tailoring treatment plans to each person’s unique goals and circumstances, blending evidence-based therapies with a holistic understanding of quality of life. Above all, I aim to build trusting, long-term relationships with my patients, advocating for their needs and helping them navigate the challenges of their disease with dignity and hope.
I enjoy spending time with my husband, two cats and our dog Buffy. In my free time I enjoy hiking, cycling, reading and embroidery.
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April Support Meeting: Canine Partners of the Rockies April Support Meeting: Canine Partners of the Rockies
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April 1, 2026
Prairie Sage Rooms
Canine Partners of the Rockies raises, trains and places highly skilled mobility service dogs with Coloradans with a variety of disabilities, including Parkinson's. During the presentation, we will talk about service dog laws, how to get a service dog as well as what a service dog can do for a person living with Parkinson's.
About Miki Brewington
Miki graduated from the University of Arkansas with a B.A. in Psychology with an emphasis in Public Health and Medicine. With a foundation in Psychology and diverse experience, including roles in flight attending and mental health administrative positions, she brings a unique blend of skills and dedication to the team at Canine Partners of the Rockies.
In her previous roles, she's developed an ability to juggle multiple tasks and adapt to changing situations. These attributes, combined with her deep love for animals, fuel her determination to contribute to the wonderful work of Canine Partners of the Rockies!She is from Arkansas, but always knew Colorado would be where she would end up. Whenever she can, she loves to be out in the sun with her pets and partner, Zac, hiking, camping and climbing!
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May Support Meeting: ZOOM - Deep Brain Stimulation for PD May Support Meeting: ZOOM - Deep Brain Stimulation for PD
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May 6, 2026
This month's meeting is Zoom only!
About Taryn Shaftel
Taryn Shaftel is a sales professional with Medtronic in the medical device industry, specifically focused on Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and cardiovascular diagnostics; she previously worked in environmental services, skilled in coaching and client relations contribute to the wonderful work of Canine Partners of the Rockies!
She is from Arkansas, but always knew Colorado would be where she would end up. Whenever she can, she loves to be out in the sun with her pets and partner, Zac, hiking, camping and climbing!
Zoom
Visitors and newcomers are always welcome. There is no admission charge. And for now, we are streaming the presentation portion of these monthly meetings on Zoom – details are in our newsletter.
If you would like to be added to our email list in order to receive PSGLC communications and online meeting invitations, please contact us at this email address to register: fcpdac@gmail.com
There are more support meeting options, including HARDY Parkinson’s Support Group and Powerful Tools for Caregivers. Click here for more information.
Something for Everyone
| Exercise for Bodies and Voices On Demand (click on links to go to the exercise pages) |
| PD on the Move (video library) |
| Dance for PD at Home (Scroll to the lower part of the page to view the library) |
| Power for Parkinson’s |
| Rocky Steady Boxing |
| SPEAK OUT! Exercises with Pam |
| Rhythm Exercise to Speak and Sing (Video Library) |
Local Classes – Currently Online
| PD Music Therapy Exercise Class | Now being offered via Zoom every Tuesday afternoon from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. This class offers sitting and standing exercises incorporating Music Therapy and Physical Therapy, with instructors Kyle Wilhelm, Music Therapist and Ruth Rice, Physical Therapist. If you are interested in joining this group, please send an email to Kyle.Wilhelm@colostate.edu |
| Power Punch Parkinson’s Fort Collins | Meeting together on Zoom every Monday at 11am, Tuesday and Friday at 9am. Classes includes stretching, balance, coordination, strengthening, endurance, and boxing moves. Participants must complete a Parkinson Association of the Rockies (PAR) waiver prior to attending . Email Kayla Bach at kbbach24@gmail.com for waiver and Zoom access. |
| Moving Through Parkinson’s | Website: www.movingthroughparkinsons.com Monday, 11:00 – 12:15 (via Zoom) Wednesday 2:15 – 3:30 (via Zoom) |








