2026 Optimism Walks
The Optimism Walk is part of a nationwide movement to mobilize and inspire people to step up and help put an end to Parkinson’s disease. Join us at one of our many locations across the nation and help us get one step closer to supporting APDA’s critical mission: Helping all people with PD live life to the fullest.
Join us in 2026 for a fun-filled, non-competitive walk, that raises much-needed funds and awareness of Parkinson’s disease. This year, join us in Norfolk, Suffolk, or create your own walk! The Optimism Walk traditionally features a Parkinson’s resource fair, lawn games, PD exercise, dance, or singing demonstrations, a photo booth, and more!
Find Optimism Near You
September 12, 2026 | Suffolk
Thank you Norfolk! See you 5/1/27!
2027 Virginia Optimism Walks
To volunteer and join the Optimism Walk committee for 2027, please email kwiesmann@apdaparkison.org, or call 757-495-3062 for information on the next committee meetings!
Past Optimism Walks









The Optimism Walk is a nationwide movement to mobilize and inspire people to step up and put an end to Parkinson’s disease. We walk because every six minutes someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s affects approximately 28,000 Virginians and that number grows every year. Our goal is to spread awareness and promote early intervention so we can help those with Parkinson’s continue to live a long and meaningful life and manage their symptoms. You are more than your symptoms.
Thank You to our amazing 2026 Sponsors and Friends of APDA Virginia who helped to make these walks happen!
Gold Sponsors
- Medtronic
Silver Sponsors
- Amneal
- Boston Scientific
- City of Norfolk
- Riverside Health System
- Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences EVMS Medical Group Lawrence J. Goldrich Institute for Integrated Neurohealth at Old Dominion University
Bronze Sponsors
- AbbVie
- Acadia
- Beach Ford
- Bon Secours
- Morgan Stanley
- Sentara Health
- Virginia Health Services
For questions, email kwiesmann@apdaparkinson.org or call 757-495-3062





