Webinar: Young Onset Parkinson’s – Lived Experience, Leadership and Advocacy

Published on: 16 March 2026

Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s at a younger age brings distinct challenges that can affect work, family life, identity, and long-term planning. In this powerful and informative webinar, we are joined by Sheenagh Bottrell and Gaynor Edwards, two internationally respected advocates who have played pivotal roles in raising awareness of Young Onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD).

Together, they will share personal insight, global perspective, and advocacy experience to shine a spotlight on the realities of living with Parkinson’s at a younger age.

In this webinar:

• Sheenagh Bottrell — registered nurse, Parkinson’s advocate, and Australian Ambassador for the World Parkinson Congress 2026 — will share her lived experience of young onset Parkinson’s, reflecting on diagnosis, identity, resilience, and finding her voice through advocacy and community connection.

• Gaynor Edwards — former CEO and founder of the world’s first charity dedicated to Young Onset Parkinson’s — will speak about the origins and impact of Spotlight YOPD, highlighting why young onset Parkinson’s has long been under-recognised and what is needed to better support this community globally.

Together, Sheenagh and Gaynor will:

-  Explore how young onset Parkinson’s differs from later-onset disease

-  Discuss the emotional, social, and practical challenges faced by younger people with Parkinson’s

-  Highlight the importance of visibility, advocacy, and peer support

-  Share hope-focused messages about connection, purpose, and navigating life with Parkinson’s

This webinar will be especially relevant for people living with young onset Parkinson’s, their families, health professionals, and anyone interested in advocacy and lived-experience leadership.

If you have a question about Parkinson’s Tasmania or advocacy that you would like answered in the webinar, please email your question to parkinsons@utas.edu.au

Back to News