Our regular support group meetings are the first Wednesday of each month, 10:30 – 12:30. We are grateful to now be back at the Fort Collins Senior Center! And for now, we are streaming the presentation portion of these monthly meetings on Zoom – details are in our newsletter.
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
HARDY Parkinson’s Support Group
Targeted for Highly Active, Recently Diagnosed or Young-Onset People with Parkinson’s. This group meets at 6:00pm in the Community Room at the Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Get the latest info at: https://hardyparkinsons.wordpress.com
HARDY Parkinson’s group meets every 4-6 weeks. Watch your inbox for meeting dates. For further information, email: paul.french.parkinsons@gmail.com
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a program that has been offered since 2008 in Larimer County and there are now hundreds of ‘graduates’. Caregivers meet for six weeks for 2 hours per week and learn how to:
- Identify and find ways to reduce stress
- Improve self-confidence in coping with caregiving demands
- Ways to communicate difficult emotions
- Find community resources
Thank you to our generous supporters!
Thad Pawlikowski
