Global Symposium Series
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex and diverse condition. To assist in expanding your knowledge of PD, Parkinson Society British Columbia will be hosting three webinars in this symposium series, featuring talks from global experts. Please note, separate registration will be required for each session.
Insights into Genetics, Management, and Personal Impact - Dr. Thomas Gasser, neurologist
Thursday, September 5 | 9:00am - 10:00am
Dr. Gasser will delve into PD's genetic underpinnings, recent discoveries, and effective management strategies. Learn how genetic insights can influence health decisions and gain practical advice on managing PD. Engage directly with Dr. Gasser during a Q&A session! Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and connect with an expert in the field.
 |
Dr. Thomas Gasser is a distinguished professor of neurology and director of the Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases at the Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research since 2002. He also chairs the Board of Directors at the Center of Neurology, University of Tübingen, and coordinates clinical studies for the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE). His research, focusing on the genetic and molecular basis of Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders, earned him the 2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences.
|
Register
Understanding and Treating Psychosis - Dr. Ross Dunne, consultant old age psychiatrist
Wednesday, September 11 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Many individuals with Parkinson’s disease experience psychosis symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, which can be particularly challenging to manage due to their varied presentations and limited treatment options. Join us for an engaging session with Dr. Dunne as he demystifies psychosis, explores its impact on those living with Parkinson's, and provides practical guidelines on when and how treatment should be administered. Gain valuable insights and empower yourself with the knowledge to better navigate these complex symptoms.
 |
Dr. Dunne, a Trinity College Dublin graduate, specializes in old age psychiatry and dementia research. He has held prestigious fellowships and roles, including consultant at Greater Manchester Mental Health Trust and clinical director of the Greater Manchester Dementia Research Centre. Dr. Dunne leads trials in dementia and depression, serves on various advisory panels, and teaches workshops on Parkinson’s and dementia.
His research focuses on clinical prediction models, biomarkers, and machine learning in neuroimaging and neurodegenerative diseases. An honorary senior lecturer at the University of Manchester, Dr. Dunne is also a WEMSI©-trained wilderness physician.
|
Register
Sleep Disorders - Dr. Okeanis Vaou, movement disorder specialist
Wednesday, September 18 | 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Join us for an engaging webinar with Dr. Okeanis Vaou, a board-certified sleep specialist and expert in movement disorders. Dr. Vaou will delve into the intricacies of sleep disorders related to Parkinson’s disease, sharing the latest developments in understanding and managing these issues. Discover valuable insights and practical tips to improve sleep and quality of life for those with Parkinson’s. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leading specialist in the field!
 |
Dr. Okeanis Vaou earned her medical degree from Semmelweis University in Budapest and completed her neurology residency at New York Medical College, where she was chief resident. She pursued fellowships in Movement Disorders and Sleep Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine. Dr. Vaou developed a Movement Disorders clinic at Noran Neurological Clinic in Minneapolis before returning to Boston Medical Center to join the Movement and Sleep Disorders team and serve as assistant DBS program director.
Her research focuses on novel pharmacological agents, patient education, early Parkinson’s Disease awareness, DBS treatment, and Parkinson’s in women, with a particular emphasis on genetic testing in the Hispanic population.
|
Register
Please note: These sessions are designed to provide general education and are not intended for individual advice and/or clinical care. Q&A sessions that take place will not be recorded.