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Ivan, you have made me really think while I read your post today. I do not have anyone whom I am directly connected with who is a pwp or am I a family member of one. I am a good long distance friend of one and am a new friend of several who are on the list. I would like to ask an ignorant question as I am newish to the list. I realize that most of you belong to local support groups. Is there any state wide, national, or international conferences that bring together doctors in the field, governmental representatives, interested parties and most of all those directly involved with Parkinsons: those who are pwp? I ask this because my grand daughter has Autism. I saw how it affected her parents for years until her violence nearly destroyed them. This changed when they became no longer the * victims * but instead acted to do something for her and for others as well. My daughter now is King County co-ordinator for Autism and is a state trainer for all who have special needs. She had no special training prior to this and only a raw talent for speaking. It is her passion that is heard. Because of this she has been asked to testify before legislature committees twice and has been asked by our both our US senators to explain what more is needed. She regularily attends the national conferences on Autism; this is where networking is done. I have seen how powerful national networking can be, and again on a personal level here on the list. She is an advocate just as you are Ivan. It is as you say Ivan, about speaking out to those who would listen if they but knew how many there are who have Parkinsons, and how many more will be diagnosed in a short time. One person can make a difference as you are attempting to do Ivan ..Passion is heard . *seattle* Audrey friend of pwp aussie John 49/42/38?