Katie Couric is Honorary National Chair of National Parkinson Foundation

HollywoodNews.com: Katie Couric has agreed to be the honorary national chair of the National Parkinson Foundation’s (NPF) inaugural Moving Day campaign. Moving Day is the first grassroots campaign to spotlight Parkinson’s disease (PD) awareness on a national level. The importance of good care for people with Parkinson’s is near and dear to Ms. Couric—her father, John Couric, 90, died recently from complications due to Parkinson’s disease. “Parkinson’s is a challenging and often debilitating disease that robs too many people of their ability to lead a full life. I watched in awe as my father bravely battled this disease and know that he greatly benefited from care, which significantly minimized his symptoms by addressing all aspects of his well being,” says Katie Couric, honorary national chair of Moving Day. “Every individual coping with this disease should have the same quality care my Dad did, and that’s why the work of the NPF is so critically important. Its three-pronged mission of research, education, and outreach will help countless people suffering from Parkinson’s today and will develop better treatments for the scores who will be diagnosed in the future. I am proud to be a part of this mission and in doing so, honor my wonderful father, who was a true profile in courage as he soldiered on every day to remain an active and vibrant part of the family he so loved.” Moving Day is a new campaign to raise awareness and funds through annual fundraising walks. Each walk will feature a “Movement Pavilion,” with stations such as yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, dance and much more. Studies show that movement is beneficial and proven to help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, improving flexibility and mobility. Even vigorous exercise such as biking and running has been shown to potentially slow down or delay progression. “We are delighted that Katie Couric is serving as the honorary national chair of Moving Day to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease, and to highlight NPF’s focus on improving the quality of Parkinson’s care for every person diagnosed with this disease,” states NPF President and CEO Joyce Oberdorf. “With her help, we are better able to reach people of all ages and abilities about the role that movement and exercise plays in managing symptoms and in keeping people with PD healthy.” Photo by PRPhotos Follow Hollywood News on Twitter for up-to-date news information. Hollywood News, Hollywood Awards, Awards,  Movies, [...]