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Category Archives: Parkinson Foundation NPFWPA

Laughter Really is the Best Medicine

NPFWPA to host annual Comedy Night at Rivers Casino on April 5

Help fight Parkinson’s disease with a good laugh at the National Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania(NPFWPA) third annual Comedy Night fundraiser on Saturday, April 5, at Rivers Casino. Presented in conjunction with Parkinson’s Awareness Month, proceeds from this event will help to expand programs, outreach and awareness within the communities NPFWPA serves.
“Mental health is extremely important for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD),” says NPFWPA Executive Director, Barbara Farrell. “Mood, depression and anxiety can have even more impact than motor impairments commonly associated with the  disease.” NPFWPA hosts its annual Comedy Night not only to raise funds to support its mission but also to demonstrate that laughter can enhance quality of life and help those  with PD to live well.
After watching loved ones become frustrated while they struggled with the disease, local comedian Andy Picarro recognizes how important laughter becomes when you’re dealing with a debilitating disease and the mental health issues that come along with it. Inspired by the television show Seinfeld and his love for being onstage, Picarro is an honest and conversational comic who recently returned to his hometown of Pittsburgh. He is “very much looking forward to the show and knows his fellow comics feel the same way.” Continue Reading