October 5, 2007

Lonnie Ali speaks at new Parkinson’s Institute and Clinical Center in Sunnyvale

By Thom Harney
Special to the Times

“To be the first, official guest of the Parkinson’s Institute and Clinical Center at this beautiful new facility - what an honor!"

Lonnie Ali speaks at a Sept. 27 gathering at the new headquarters of the Parkinson’s Institute and Clinical Center in Sunnyvale. Photo by Thom Harney.

With those opening words, Yolanda “Lonnie” Ali addressed the gathered attendees at the new Parkinson’s Center at 675 Almanor Avenue in Sunnyvale on Thursday, Sept. 27.

Lonnie Ali is the wife and caregiver of Muhammad Ali, former World Heavyweight Boxing champion, and humanitarian. Muhammad Ali, the larger-than-life legend is now afflicted with Pugilistic Parkinson’s disease, a progressive disorder of the central nervous system.

Lonnie Ali, an articulate advocate for those suffering from Parkinson’s disease, went on to say, "This ‘Fight for More’ campaign is a team effort. Everyone with Parkinson’s disease needs to have someone in their corner.”

“Our goal in the ‘Fight for More’ national educational campaign is to help Parkinson’s disease patients and the millions of caregivers caring for them to get the support, education, and resources they need,” she said. Lonnie Ali referenced the official website – www.fightformore.com - as the best source for more information about Parkinson’s disease and the campaign.

The Parkinson’s Institute and Clinical Center was founded by Dr. Langston in 1988. The center now carries out basic and clinical research and serves 4500 patients annually. It recently moved into the newly remodeled, 60,000 square foot facility in Sunnyvale offering expanded patient services, research labs, and a large public meeting area for lectures, workshops, and community events. New patients may call (408) 734-2800 for an appointment. Tours of the new headquarters may be arranged for individuals or groups by contacting Ken Toren, Executive Director at (408) 542-5657. The website for the center is www.thepi.org.