Welcome to the APDA Massachusetts Chapter
About the APDA Massachusetts Chapter

The APDA Massachusetts Chapter works tirelessly every day to support and empower those in our community who are impacted by Parkinson’s disease (PD). We promote hope and optimism through innovative services, programs, education, and support, while also funding vital research. We are here to help you and your loved ones every step of the way.
Services we provide:
- Educational programs and resources
- Support groups
- Exercise and wellness classes
- Information and referrals
- Financial support programs
- and much more
Building Community
The APDA MA Chapter also provides funding to support health and wellness initiatives across the state. Visit our Community Grant Program page to learn more.
Find Resources & Support Groups
We provide local resources and support to the Parkinson’s community. Find a support group, join an art or movement class, get physical or occupational therapy, or take part in clinical trials. If you need further guidance in finding resources and support, contact our APDA Information & Referral Center at Boston University School of Medicine at 800-651-8466 or apdama@apdaparkinson.org.
APDA MA Contact Information
APDA Massachusetts Chapter Staff
**For questions related to the APDA Massachusetts Chapter, please contact:
Jessica van der Stad, Executive Director
617-634-2497
jvanderstad@apdaparkinson.org
APDA Massachusetts Chapter
Mailing Address
APDA
85 East Concord Street, Ground Floor
Boston, MA 02118
APDA Information & Referral Center at Boston University School of Medicine
85 East Concord Street, Ground Floor
Boston, MA 02118
Cathi Thomas, RN, MS
617-638-8466
800-651-8466
information@apdama.org
APDA Centers for Advanced Research in Massachusetts
APDA Center for Advanced Research at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine:
Marie Hélène Saint-Hilaire, MD, FRCP (C), Director
APDA funding supports:
- Studies to identify potential PD biomarkers
- Characterization of PD among various ethnic groups
- Exercise intervention, wearable technology and attention training clinical trials
- Approximately 4000 patient visits per year – Deep Brain Stimulation Program
APDA Center for Advanced Research at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School
Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School:
Vikram Khurana, MD, PhD, Director
APDA funding supports:
- Studies that probe the biology of PD-causing genetic mutations
- A biomarker discovery program using specimens from more than 2,700 participants
- A drug discovery program that utilizes technologies such as stem cells and big data analytics
- Approximately 2,200 patients visits each year
Help Us Help Our Community
Make an impact to help people with Parkinson’s in your local community. Your ongoing support makes our work possible. Please give what you can to help people with Parkinson’s disease live life to the fullest.