Dear friends and members of the Parkinson’s community,
I am writing to you today with a deep sense of hope and a clear intent as I begin my journey as the new Director General of Parkinson’s Europe. It is a profound honour to take on this responsibility and to work alongside such an incredible team, for a community that is as vibrant as it is vital.
The past: what drew me to this mission
My career has been shaped by two main drivers: high-level European strategy and a deep belief in human empowerment. Over the past 17 years, I have worked across local and international associations, government entities, and multinational companies. My work has always been about taking complex goals and turning them into real-world results.
However, it was the deeply human mission of Parkinson’s Europe that truly resonated with me. My background as a coach specialised in behavioral neuroscience and creativity has always been about helping people live happier lives and find the strength to thrive in the face of adversity. I have spent years helping organisations navigate change and find new ways to reach their goals. Joining Parkinson’s Europe feels like the perfect meeting point for these two paths – a place where I can use my experience in advocacy to unite our community, while leading with empathy to unlock the true potential of our network.
The present: a force that needs a unified direction
In my first few weeks, I have been struck by the incredible resilience of this community. I have witnessed a sense of solidarity so strong it feels like a physical force. Whether you are a person living with Parkinson’s, a tireless family member, a neurologist, a nurse, or a researcher, a passionate advocate, I see people who wake up every morning with a mission. That is where our power lies.
But energy and intent alone are not enough. To truly change things in Europe, we have to move together. Right now, access to care and expertise is a “geographical lottery” – it depends entirely on where you live in Europe. To fix this, we must close ranks. Parkinson’s Europe will focus on building a stronger, more synchronised community where our actions are amplified because we are working as one.
I have also been moved by Parkinson’s Europe’s team. We are a small, remote team of just ten people spread across Europe, but there is a strong passion and commitment to go the extra mile to support the community – a silent force to reckon with. I witnessed the raw honesty of this community – from the tears of frustration of those feeling unheard to the joy of a new breakthrough – has made my commitment absolute.
I feel like I entered a new world: not of appearances but a world of genuine care.
The future: becoming an unstoppable wave
My goal for the future of Parkinson’s Europe is bold: I dream of a day when my position no longer needs to exist. That is the endgame. We must work toward a world where there is not only a cure that is available to everyone but also a future where we can prevent this disease entirely.
Until that day, we will be relentless. Our focus is clear:
- A unified voice: we will make the Parkinson’s community a force that is impossible to ignore across Europe.
- Ending the lottery: We will fight to ensure that quality care and treatment are a universal right, not a matter of luck.
- Changing the story: We will challenge the ‘shaking disease’ stereotype and show the world the complex reality of what living with Parkinson’s actually means.
As I settle into this role, I want to stay connected to your daily lives. My ‘digital door’ is always open. I am here to listen, to learn from your expertise, and to ensure our strategy is a true reflection of your needs.
Individual drops are easily lost, but together, we become an unstoppable wave. Do not give up. We are closing ranks, we are organising, and we are moving forward together.
With hope and determination,
Hélène Nicora
Director General, Parkinson’s Europe
