Sparks of Life, a growing Jewish community support organization for people affected by Parkinson’s, held their fifth Evening of Support in HamaspikCare of Monsey on May 9. The organization is spearheaded by Lakewood resident Rabbi Moshe Gruskin, who turned his own diagnosis into a drive to help others with the disease. Sparks of Life aims to fill a very necessary void for Parkinson’s patients with a Jewish support system. The goal of the organization is to provide the much-needed emotional support and medical guidance through the strength of a unified group. Besides informing and empowering inquirers with the latest treatment options and personalized suggestions for each individual case, the non-profit organization has been hosting public awareness events like the Monsey event.

The event brought a sizable Monsey community up to speed on Parkinson’s information and options. The guest speaker for the evening, Dr. Rebecca Gilbert, is an associate professor in the department of neurology and associate director of movement disorder at the NYU Medical Center. Board certified in neurology, she has published books and articles on various aspects of Parkinson’s disorder. Rabbi Paysach Krohn, author of “The Maggid Speaks” series and renowned inspirational speaker, addressed the attendees as well. The lecture was followed by a question-and-answer session.

The educational and inspirational value of the event was enormous, but perhaps even more valuable are the connections created that the family unit and those challenged with Parkinson’s can tap into, taking comfort in knowing that they are not alone in the frightening journey of Parkinson’s. Working together, more can be accomplished as all derive strength from one other.

“Don’t stand alone,” is the Sparks of Life’s slogan. With Sparks of Life, those affected by Parkinson’s won’t have to.