Join us for the Iowa Optimism Walk –
Saturday, September 19th
Join us on September 19th for the APDA Iowa Optimism Walk. A day of hope, community, and support for those impacted by Parkinson’s disease.
Walk, give, or get involved, every step makes a difference.
In the News: Jason Parkin Shares His Parkinson’s Journey
We’re honored to have Jason Parkin, Chief Meteorologist at WHO 13 and Honorary Chair of the 2026 APDA Iowa Optimism Walk, helping raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease and supporting the Parkinson’s community across Iowa.
Jason recently shared his Parkinson’s diagnosis publicly, using his platform to educate others and shine a light on the realities of living with Parkinson’s disease. By telling his story, Jason is helping bring greater awareness, understanding, and hope to thousands of Iowans affected by Parkinson’s.
We’re incredibly grateful to have Jason as part of the APDA family and appreciate his commitment to helping others navigate their Parkinson’s journey.
Click here to check out Jason’s story in the news and join him at the APDA Iowa Optimism Walk!
Together, we’re raising awareness, building community, and bringing hope to those impacted by Parkinson’s disease. 💙
You can also meet Jason and support his team, The Cumulonimbros, at this year’s APDA Iowa Optimism Walk.
When: Saturday, September 19th
Check-in at 12:30 pm, Ceremony & Walk at 1:30 pm
Location: Walker Johnston Park-Giovannetti Shelter, 9000 Douglas Avenue, Urbandale, Iowa
Tribute Signs at the Optimism Walk – Faces of PD
Honor a loved one. Celebrate their journey. Share their story.
At this year’s Optimism Walk, we invite you to take part in a meaningful tradition. Tribute Signs will be displayed along the walking route. These signs are a special way for families, friends, and supporters to recognize and honor those impacted by Parkinson’s disease.
Whether you are walking in support of someone currently living with Parkinson’s or remembering a loved one, your tribute will be part of a powerful visual display of hope and community. Click the arrow from the options below to learn how to submit for your 2026 Faces of PD Optimism Walk tribute sign.
Honor a Current Parkinson’s Warrior
Help us recognize someone currently living with Parkinson’s. To create a sign in their honor, please email nwinterbottom@apdaparkinson.org with the following information:
- First Name
- Photo
- Age they were diagnosed
- How many years they’ve been a Parkinson’s warrior
- A quote about how they stay optimistic every day
In Memory of a Loved One
Celebrate the life of someone who bravely fought Parkinson’s. To create a memorial sign, please email nwinterbottom@apdaparkinson.org with the following information:
- First Name
- Photo
- How many years they lived with Parkinson’s
- A quote from a friend or family member about them
Thank you to our 2026 Optimism Walk Sponsors
Relive the day: 2025 Optimism Walk Photo Album