World Parkinsons Congress, Part I

Danylle Hayden rode her bike to the meeting via Los Angeles, because why not?

It’s not too early to start planning a trip to Quebec City in 2029. The capito of French Canada will be hosting the world’s largest Parkinsons event, which comes along every three years and features panels of experts, research reports, poster sessions and social gatherings.

Danylle Hayden en route to LA

A couple of our members from the NH Seacoast took part in the last Congress, held in Phoenix in June and we’re fortunate  to get to experience the huge event from their particular perspectives.

Cycling phenom Danylle Hayden’s Congress began with what sounded like a math story problem: If three groups of people with Parkinsons set off on their bicycles from three different locales, who would get to Phoenix first? Who cares? Each group would have a life-changing experience and raise a lot of awareness in the process. 

Check out this inspirational, five-minute video of the ride from LA to Phoenix.

Danylle’s group started in Los Angeles. We heard rumors that Danylle’s nickname on the trip was “Butterfly” because she seemed to float effortlessly above the lead riders in the pack. 

The three groups rode anywhere from 10 to 35 days to reach LA. And each was greeted with a celebration organized by fans, supporters, family and friends. They felt like celebrities reports Danylle. 

“This was truly a once in a lifetime event that won't soon be forgotten. The love, compassion and camaraderie in the PD community is truly unmatched.” ❤️

The next big thing for Danylle:

“For the past several years, I have been living with Parkinson’s disease. I’m now working in support of the Michael J Fox Foundation’s efforts to advance research and work toward a cure.  

“I'll be flying to Chamonix France to participate in the Fox Tower cycling event to raise money and awareness for PD.  

“At the beginning of September, I will take on the Mont Blanc Tour de Fox 2026, a charity cycling event supporting the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

“This event covers more than 130 km, over 3,000 meters of climbing, several hours of riding in the mountains, sometimes technical descents, and three legendary Tour de France climbs: Col de la Colombière, Col des Aravis, and Col des Saisies.

Parkinson’s disease continues to progress. Taking on a challenge like this will be difficult, but I am determined 💪

“There is still no treatment that can cure Parkinson’s disease or stop its progression. That is why research is so important.”

Danylle's donation page