Living with Parkinson’s involves more than managing physical symptoms — it can affect daily life, wellbeing, relationships, and confidence.

Parkinson’s: Beyond the Diagnosis is a community education and support event presented by Chakra Foundation Australia, designed to provide general health information, shared experiences, and opportunities for connection for people living with Parkinson’s, their carers, and families.

The program will feature contributions from experienced health professionals across neurology and allied health disciplines, alongside lived-experience perspectives. Sessions focus on education, wellbeing, and support, rather than individual medical advice.

This event aims to create a respectful, inclusive space where attendees can learn, ask general questions, and connect with others who understand the Parkinson’s journey.

Meet our speakers:

A/Prof Andrew Evans - Neurologist

Topic : Getting the Most from Your Meds: A Guide to Timing and Tolerance: Balancing Benefits and Side Effects

A/Prof Dominic Thiagarajan - Neurologist

Topic : When Pills Aren't Enough: Exploring Device-Assisted Therapies and making the right choice

Dr. Sarah Farrand -Neuropsychiatrist

Topic-Mind & Mood: The Non-Motor Journey: Managing Memory, Mood, and Mental Health

Ms. Chantelle Oten -Sexologist

Topic : Love and Parkinson's: Navigating Sexual Health and Intimacy

Dr. Steven Sommers -GP

Topic : Life Beyond the Diagnosis: A Patient’s Perspective

Ms.Laura Blandy - Neurorehab (PHYSIOTHERAPIST)

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Ms. Rachael Johnstone Neurorehab (PHYSIOTHERAPIST)

Topic : Movement Matters: Keeping on the Move: The Science of Exercise and Mobility

Mr. Girish Nair - Neurosurgeon

Topic : DBS Demystified: Current Evidence , New Techniques and Real-World Outcomes

Mr. Victor McConvey

Director of Health Services at Fight Parkinsons

Topic :Overview on support available for Parkinson’s patients

Prof. Dinesh Kant Kumar Fellow of Australasian Institute of Digital Health (FAIDH),RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia

Topic : High-Tech Help: Using Innovation to Monitor and Manage PD

Dr. Arup Bhattacharya -Geriatric Medicine Specialist

Topic : Aging Gracefully: Special Considerations for the Elderly

Dr. Robin Hunter -Rehabilitation Physician

Topic : Reclaiming Independence: The Vital Role of Rehabilitation, Tools for Better Daily Living

Prof. Grant Dewson -Laboratory Head - WEHI Parkinson's Disease Research Centre

Topic : The Road Ahead: Exciting Research and Trials defining the future treatment options for Parkinson’s

Contact the host of Parkinson’s: Beyond the Diagnosis