About Us

“No one should leave a doctor’s office with a life-changing diagnosis and no resources for local support in their hands.”

Lauren Simmons
Co-Founder Parkinson’s Orange County

Our Story

Parkinson’s Orange County was born from a local website, PDBuzz.com, created by Lauren Simmons, an Orange County resident living with Parkinson’s. In 2016, Lauren was diagnosed at age 54. She left her doctor’s office with a diagnosis—but no hope, no guidance, and no clear resources.

Hearing similar stories from others in the community, Lauren made it her mission to help newly diagnosed individuals connect with the many programs and services available in Orange County. PDBuzz.com went live in 2018, providing vital information and support.

After six years of growth, it was time to become an official nonprofit. Parkinson’s Orange County is that organization today, led by Erin Angelo, our Executive Director, continuing the work Lauren started.

Our mission remains the same: to connect people to resources as soon as possible after diagnosis. You are not alone, and we are here to take this journey with you.

Our Board

Lauren Simmons

Board President

Stacy Collins

Board Secretary

Rich Hirshberg

Board Treasurer

Rand Tanner

Board Member

Marcia Kelley

Board Member

Our Advisors

Dr. Tanya Denne N.D.

Naturopath

Community Liaisons

Robert Pearce

Community Liaison

Luiz Torrez

Community Liason

Our Staff

Erin Angelo

Executive Director

Jodi Kanter

Community Outreach Coordinator

Mariel Boyle

Administrative Assistant

Testimonials

PAULA W.
"The feedback we have gotten has made all the work worthwhile. The Orange County Parkinson's community has once again showed the world that they are many, proactive, and strong."
JORDAN S.
“You have an exceptional team, and everyone is always so friendly. Thanks.”
CHARLIE B.
“This is outstanding. I was treated with great respect. This is definitely a website I will return to, and I am also happy to refer my friends here.”
Donate Contact