The Summit County Board of Health convened on April 3, 2023, to address critical health issues affecting the community, with a significant focus on Parkinson's disease. The meeting featured a poignant presentation by Inza Vieten, a Park City resident and former executive director of Recycle Utah, who shared her personal journey with Parkinson's and the urgent need for awareness and support.

Vieten opened her remarks by recounting a recent incident involving a fellow Parkinson's patient, highlighting the severe consequences of missed medication. She emphasized that Parkinson's disease affects approximately one million people in the U.S. and incurs substantial healthcare costs, estimated at over $52 billion annually. Vieten, diagnosed in January 2020 after years of benign essential tremors, expressed concern that many residents in Summit County may be living with undiagnosed Parkinson's.

During her presentation, Vieten explained the nature of Parkinson's disease as a chronic, progressive neurological disorder characterized by motor symptoms due to the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. She noted that there is currently no cure or way to halt the disease's progression, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

Vieten also discussed the cardinal signs of Parkinson's, which include slowness of movement, stiffness, and balance issues. She shared her personal experiences with the disease, including challenges with writing, memory loss, and other non-motor symptoms that often go unnoticed. Vieten urged the community to engage in conversations about Parkinson's and to seek medical advice if they suspect symptoms.

The meeting also touched on the need for increased research funding, as Vieten pointed out the disparity between the federal spending on care versus research for Parkinson's disease. She called for advocacy to ensure that more resources are allocated to understanding and treating the condition.

In conclusion, the Summit County Board of Health meeting highlighted the pressing need for awareness, support, and research regarding Parkinson's disease. Vieten's heartfelt presentation served as a catalyst for further discussions on how the community can better support those affected by this challenging condition. The board plans to continue these conversations and explore ways to enhance resources and support for residents living with Parkinson's.