This week, the ParkinsonFonds Foundation exists 25 years. The organization is the only one that has been involved in research into the cause of the disease since its inception. Parkinson’s disease is the fastest growing brain disease in the world and is still incurable, chronic and progressive. About 65,000 Dutch people live with the disease and young people are increasingly affected.
Since its establishment in January 1998, the foundation has subsidized 25 million euros for one hundred medical-scientific studies. Through such studies, several breakthroughs and better treatments have been achieved. Technological developments offer more and more possibilities. As a result, researchers gain valuable knowledge more quickly.
Director Ineke Zaal: ‘That gives hope for finding a cure for Parkinson’s. As long as Parkinson’s cannot be stopped or prevented, the ParkinsonFonds will continue to fund the best fundamental studies. It is only thanks to our donors that we can realize these important studies. Only if we know the cause can we prevent the disease in the future.’
