Young Onset
A Parkinson’s diagnosis can land in the middle of a full life: a job you care about, kids who need you, plans you were making, and responsibilities that do not simply pause.
How will this affect work?
Who do you tell, and when?
What does this mean for your family, finances, and future?
The YOPD Connection Group brings together Orange County people who are working through those same questions. You don’t have to have it all figured out. There’s a place for you here, whenever you’re ready.
Our YOPD Connection Group is here to support people navigating Parkinson’s in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond.
We meet monthly in Irvine for real-life conversations, guest speakers, and connection with people who understand the day-to-day questions that can come with a younger diagnosis.
If joining a Parkinson’s disease support group feels like too much right now, that’s completely okay.
We can connect you one-on-one with someone who understands what you’re going through and has faced similar questions along the way.
Explore additional resources, peer insight, and community support created for people living with young-onset Parkinson’s.
A peer-focused booklet from the Parkinson & Movement Disorder Alliance. Learn more →
Resources and education focused on exercise, nutrition, and living well with Parkinson’s. Learn more →
An athlete and advocate sharing his experience living with young-onset Parkinson’s. Learn more →
A global community for connection, education, and advocacy. Learn more →
Resources, peer connections, and educational programs for people diagnosed before age 50 and their care partners. Learn more →
Parkinson’s may change parts of your day-to-day life. It does not erase your work, your family, your plans, or the things that matter to you.
Meet people in Orange County who are finding their own way forward, and who understand the questions you are carrying.
Questions about the YOPD Connection Group?
Contact Joanie at joanierollins@gmail.com.
The group is for people living with young onset Parkinson’s, often during their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond, who want connection with others navigating work, family, relationships, and everyday life with Parkinson’s.
The YOPD Connection Group meets monthly in Irvine. Contact Joanie for the current meeting details, location, and any updates before you attend.
Meetings include real-life conversations and guest speakers. Topics are shaped around the practical questions that can come with Parkinson’s disease during working and family years.
You can come to listen, meet others, and get a feel for the group. There is no pressure to speak or share more than you are comfortable sharing.
Please contact Joanie before your first meeting. She can share current details, answer questions, and help you decide whether the group feels like the right fit.
If a group does not feel right for you at the moment, Parkinson’s Orange County can connect you with someone who understands the experience of living with young-onset Parkinson’s.
A Parkinson’s diagnosis affects more than one person. Care partners are encouraged to reach out for guidance, connection, and local resources that can help them navigate this alongside you.