The ninth annual Pig Out for Parkinson’s is in the books, which means Cox Bros BBQ and the Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program are ready to start planning a stellar tenth celebration for April 2020! Once again, the Meadowlark and the Manhattan community came to the table to eat great BBQ, listen to a wonderful band, learn about Parkinson’s disease (Pd) and support the Parkinson’s Program. The Parkinson’s Program was able to make contact with two people who were recently diagnosed with Pd and were looking for resources. This is one of the biggest reasons Pig Out for Parkinson’s exists!

   Thanks to the opportunities to have radio commercials leading up to last Thursday, numerous event promotions, and two live radio remotes, the impact of providing education about what Pd is and how people can live well with it is priceless. Former K-State Coach Bill Snyder continued his tradition of attending and making all feel welcome. His support has not waivered since the inception of this event and is greatly appreciated by the patrons and people with Pd. New Coach, Chris Klieman, stepped right in and began signing autographs and relating well with all he came in contact with that evening— he made a great addition to the event. Even though the event went back to its roots of focusing on being an outreach and awareness event, the generosity of Bud and Bobby Cox, sponsors and the community helped us to have a banner year for donations, which totaled over $7,400!

   I sincerely want to thank everyone who supports and helps us spread the word that the Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program provides free education, exercise, and outreach to individuals affected by Parkinson’s living in the Flint Hills region—they do not have to live on the Meadowlark campus. If you or someone you know would like more information about the Parkinson’s Program, please call (785) 323-3899.