First Lady supported the World Parkinson's Day

On the occasion of the World Parkinson's Day in Slovakia, which will be held on 11 April 2012, adopted by the First Lady of Slovakia at the Presidential Palace representatives of the Parkinson Slovakia Association. Representatives of the association handed over the First Lady a bouquet of red tulips, which are their international symbol. Also in this way they want to point out that they are a part of our society. "I am delighted that I can welcome you in the Presidential Palace and talk about your work for people with Parkinson's disease. I also want to show you my support and help, and also to express my solidarity in the fight against this disease," said at the meeting First Lady Mrs. Silvia Gašparovičová. Through the Slovak Foundation of Silvia Gašparovičová – Education and Health for Everybody she rendered the association a check of EUR 200,- Euro as the support of activities of the association.

Mrs. Silvia Gašparovičová was interested in treatments of Parkinson's disease in Slovakia and in the world. Mr. Jozef Stohl reported that "although research is very intense, but so far this disease is not curable. Modern drugs can only dampen symptoms, reflected mainly in the motor system disorders; in Slovakia 15,000 people suffer from this disease."

During the discussions the First Lady stressed the need for greater support from the state in terms of research the disease´ causes and effective treatment. She also informed about published studies regarding the Parkinson's disease. "One of them talked about the influence of spices like coriander, curry and chili pepper. In countries, where these spices are part of daily meals, they have limited incidence of this disease," said Silvia Gašparovičová.

In Slovakia the Parkinson Slovakia Association is working, which brings together people affected by the Parkinson's disease, their families, professionals and supporters. The main activities are developed in seven regional clubs by social, rehabilitative and other activities as well as the possibility of consultation with professional supervisor, a doctor – a neurologist. Their work highly appreciated also Mrs. Silvia Gašparovičová. Chairman of the association is Mrs. Zuzana Michálková who worked for many years as a dialysis nurse and also holds the award White Heart. The next activity of the association will be the patients´ walking tour at the Deserted Castle above Zvolen, which will be held on 14 April 2012.