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Parkinson’s presenter urges awareness; Board of Health backs County proclamation
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Summary
Parkinson’s advocate Inza Vieten shared lived experience and research gaps; the board voted unanimously to forward support for an April Parkinson’s Awareness proclamation to the County Council and will present the recommendation at the council meeting.
Inza Vieten, a long‑time Summit County resident and Parkinson’s advocate, told the Board of Health that public awareness and research participation are critical as diagnoses rise. "Living with Parkinson's is a journey, and it is best done with help from those around us," Vieten said, recounting personal symptoms, diagnostic delays and participation in research studies that helped her and her family.
Vieten outlined prevalence and costs nationally, urged residents to register for studies such as the Michael J. Fox Foundation's PBMI and DNA initiatives, and described local outreach efforts (library displays and outreach tables). She asked the board to recommend that County Council declare April as Parkinson's Awareness Month.
A member moved and another seconded a motion for the board to show support for the attached proclamation and to forward a positive recommendation to County Council. The board voted in favor and the motion passed unanimously; staff said the proclamation will be presented to County Council on Wednesday.
Board discussion emphasized communicating that Parkinson's remains poorly understood in causes and treatment; speakers urged public education and more neurologists and research resources in Utah. The board will appear before the council to relay its support.
