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I will not be at the Unity Walk in person this year but, I do have a few thoughts I'd like to share: It is growing, it is gaining momentum. I first sensed its presence many years ago when Joan Samuelson spoke the words "invisible no more" to an eclectic group of rag tag advocates. We were naive enough to think we could increase NIH funding for PD research just as the newly elected Republican controlled Congress was cutting spending everywhere. Paul Wellstone has given us glimpses of its strength in his fiery speeches. Michael J. Fox has given it unimaginable visibility. Mary Yost epitomized its resolve and persistence as she crossed the finish line of last years L A Marathon wearing the TEAM PARKINSON jersey. Lets us all rally under the banner TEAM PARKINSON for that is what we are and must be if we are to achieve the CURE we so desperately seek as soon as possible. TEAM PARKINSON is more than an entry in a walk or race. It is that power we feel when we join together. Those fortunate enough to have gone to a Public Policy Forum, a Unity Walk or the LA Marathon have felt Its power. We have seen what can be accomplished if we all pull together toward a common goal - the thought to be impossible, passing the Udall Bill. Our success has been monumental. The funding we have put in place will cure PD. The question is no longer if, but when. There is another question. Will it be in time to help those who pounded the halls of Congress, the people who have PD now? That is our motivation to be part of the team. Our role is to put a human face on this dread disease, to convey our sense of urgency to others, to motivate others to join TEAM PARKINSON, to share our urgency. TEAM PARKINSON is a group, a spirit, that willingly places the goal of curing PD ahead of individual goals. It is the banner under which all who battle this disease may rally. It is the researchers, the advocates, the politicians and the people with Parkinson's. It is an elite team with only one requirement for participation: the pledge to put curing PD as the first priority.