You’re registered!
Thank you for signing up for the May 14 broadcast of APDA’s Unlocking Strength Within: Working with Parkinson’s, scheduled to air Live at 2 pm ET / 11 am PT.
Add event to calendar
How to Watch
You’ll be able to watch the broadcast on your computer, phone, tablet, or smart TV using your preferred website browser or the YouTube App.
We’ll send you an email reminder with the link to watch the day before the broadcast.
You can also visit the Scheduled YouTube Live Broadcast now by clicking this link and bookmarking it, or click SET REMINDER on the Scheduled Live Broadcast to receive a YouTube notification when we go Live and more easily access the broadcast on your smart TV.
About Our Speakers
KEITH FRITZ
Keith Fritz is 54 years old, and was diagnosed with PD 12 years ago in 2013. He successfully navigated DBS surgery in 2020. Keith started his career in education as an English teacher but has enjoyed his role as a middle/high school principal for the last 23 years. He served on the APDA Iowa Chapter’s Board of Directors after his diagnosis, and organized an annual 5K fundraiser for the organization. An avid hunter and fisherman, he and his wife together enjoy their hobby farm and riding horses. Among his greatest accomplishments are his two children, Evan and Ella, and his most precious treasures are his granddaughters, Juniper and Olive.
SHARON GILLARDI
Sharon Gillardi of St. Louis, MO, was diagnosed with PD in 2014. Sharon is a wife of 44 years, the mother of three adult children (+two bonus children), and has five grandchildren. She recently retired from a 44-year career as a registered nurse, with the last 30 of those years as a nurse anesthetist. Since her PD diagnosis, Sharon has spent her time balancing a demanding career, home life, doctor visits, and family. She has focused on maximizing her health by exercising to maintain physical strength and balance and cognitive function. With the freedom retirement brings, she feels she now has the time to assist, educate, and share experiences with others affected by PD.
LUIS TORREZ, JR.
Luis Torrez, Jr. was born and raised in the Montebello area of Los Angeles, CA. He graduated from CSULA in 1990 with a BS in Business Administration, and worked in the transportation and logistics industry for 33 years, retiring in July 2023. In 2018, he was diagnosed with Parkinsonian Syndrome after experiencing symptoms 1-2 years prior.
Anushka Shiell, Moderator
Anushka Shiell is the National Director of Programs and Services with the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA). She plans APDA educational programs, including the Thriving Through Occupational Therapy and Unlocking Strength Within webinar series, and provides support for APDA PRESS™ support groups and Connecting Through Art programs nationwide. She worked closely with the Parkinson’s community and support groups throughout Minnesota in her previous role as an APDA Information & Referral Coordinator.
ANUSHKA SHIELL, MODERATOR
Anushka Shiell is the National Director of Programs and Services with the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA). She plans APDA educational programs, including the Thriving Through Occupational Therapy and Unlocking Strength Within webinar series, and provides support for APDA PRESS™ support groups and Connecting Through Art programs nationwide. She worked closely with the Parkinson’s community and support groups throughout Minnesota in her previous role as an APDA Information & Referral Coordinator.