Newly Diagnosed
You are not alone, and this is not the end of your story.
A new Parkinson’s diagnosis can bring up a lot of emotions: fear, confusion, sadness, anger, or even relief. Some people want to learn everything they can right away. Others need time. Some tell family and friends immediately; others keep the news to themselves for a while.
There’s no right way to feel, and no right timeline for adjusting.
Parkinson’s is not the end of the road. It’s the beginning of a new way of life. When you’re ready, Parkinson’s Orange County is here to help you find support, local resources, and people who understand.
Jump Start is a welcoming, local workshop for people recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s and the people who care about them. It’s especially helpful for anyone within the first five years after diagnosis.
Spend a morning learning what can help you live well with Parkinson’s, and meeting people in Orange County who can help you along the way.
You do not need to have every question ready. You do not need to know exactly what comes next. Just come as you are.
At Jump Start, you can:
Sometimes the most helpful first step is simply talking with someone who has been through something similar.
We can connect you with local Parkinson’s disease support groups, programs, and people living with Parkinson’s in Orange County. In-person and online options are available.
If you’re reading this because someone you love has Parkinson’s, you belong here too.
A diagnosis affects the whole family. Family caregivers often have questions of their own, along with new responsibilities and worries. Jump Start and our local Orange County support network are here for you as well.
You do not have to do everything today. Start with one question, one conversation, or one Orange County support group.
Whenever you’re ready, there’s a local community ready to welcome you.
Jump Start is designed for people who are new to Parkinson’s or new to the Orange County Parkinson’s community. It is especially appropriate for people within their first five years after diagnosis.
Yes. Care partners, family members, and close friends are welcome.
That’s okay. You can start by exploring local resources or talking with someone who understands. We’ll be here when you’re ready.
Jump Start is free and includes breakfast, local resources, and time with Parkinson’s experts.
Parkinson’s Orange County connects people with support groups throughout Orange County, with both in-person and Zoom options. You can choose the setting and group that feel right for you.
You are still welcome here. While Jump Start is intended for people who are newly diagnosed or within their first five years, Parkinson’s Orange County also offers support groups, local resources, and other programs for people at different stages of Parkinson’s, as well as care partners.