The Parkinson Resource Center at Louisiana Tech University hosted “Living Well with Parkinson’s," bringing together individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, family members, health care professionals, students, and community members.
The event was made possible through a Community Grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation and provided education, support, and networking opportunities for those affected by Parkinson’s disease across North Louisiana and East Texas.
Featured speakers included Louisiana Tech alumnus and neurosurgeon Dr. Jamie Toms, who discussed the role of deep brain stimulation in managing Parkinson’s disease. Movement disorder specialists Dr. Natalia Chunga and Dr. Harleen Kaur, neurologists with Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, also presented information on current treatment options and answered questions from attendees.
“This was a remarkable event that drew families from East Texas and across North Louisiana to Tech’s campus to learn more about Parkinson’s disease,” said Dr. Donna Hood, director of the Parkinson Resource Center. “Having three physicians who specialize in the treatment of Parkinson’s provide so much information and answer many questions from the audience was wonderful for those in our region.”
The event also offered hands-on learning opportunities for Louisiana Tech students who assist with Parkinson’s programming on campus. Students helped connect families with University-based resources and gained deeper insight into treatment approaches and patient care.
Kaleigh Nale, a Winter 2026 nursing graduate, has served as a PRC nursing student scholar for the past two years. Through the program, she has worked closely with individuals and families while supporting the center’s Voice, Music & Movement and Rock Steady Boxing programs.
Established in 2019, the PRC Nursing Student Scholar Program has supported 20 Nursing students. In addition to receiving scholarships, participants gain specialized experience in Parkinson’s care, deepen their understanding of the disease, and build meaningful connections with individuals living with Parkinson’s.
Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, treatment options can help individuals maintain a strong quality of life. The Parkinson Resource Center at Louisiana Tech was established through a grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation and developed by Edmond J. Safra Visiting Nurse Scholars Dr. Tara Haskins and Hood from the University’s Division of Nursing. Through collaboration among faculty, students, and campus resources, the Center connects individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners to programs and services that support health and well-being.
The Center’s mission is to promote a healthy Parkinson’s community by connecting people, programs, ideas, and resources.
The PRC offers weekly Voice classes Wednesdays from 9-10 a.m. (September through May) and Music & Movement classes Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. year-round at the Lambright Sports and Wellness Center. Supported by the Parkinson’s Foundation, these programs are free for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners and are designed to engage the body, mind, and voice in a supportive community environment.
For more information about the Center, contact Dr. Donna Hood at 318.257.4287 or dhood@latech.edu.