From September 20 to 23, the 4th World Parkinson Congress (WPC 2016) will be held at the Oregon Convention Center. The congresses provide an international forum for dialogue on the latest scientific discoveries, medical practices, and caregiver initiatives related to Parkinson’s disease. More than 4,000 participants from around the world will be coming to Portland to attend WPC 2016, presenting a unique set of logistical and service challenges for both the convention center and the city at large.
One of WPC’s partners, local area non-profit Parkinson's Resources of Oregon (PRO) have been conducting a series of Parkinson’s Ready trainings to help prepare service organizations throughout the city, including Legacy Health Systems, the Portland Police Department, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at Portland International Airport, as well as several area hotels.
PRO also held two training sessions with the Oregon Convention Center staff to help prepare them for the special demands they may encounter while assisting attendees who are living with Parkinson's. Employees came away with a deeper understanding of Parkinson’s disease and symptoms, and practical, concrete tips for common situations.
"We want all our visitors to feel welcome, safe and secure at the convention center," said Erin Jepson, OCC Director of Events. "The PRO trainings genuinely helped to broaden our staff's knowledge and awareness of how Parkinson’s impacts individuals, and we want everyone attending WPC 2016 to know that we'll be here to assist them in every way we can."
Portland Mayor Charlie Hales has proclaimed the week of the congress as being Parkinson’s Awareness Week. Mayor Hales also plans to provide remarks at the WPC 2016 Opening Ceremony on September 20.
To learn more about the 4th World Parkinson Congress, please visit: www.wpc2016.org
The Oregon Convention Center is owned by Metro and managed by the Metro Exposition and Recreation Commission. OCC is a LEED Platinum certified facility hosting groups from around the world and bringing millions of dollars into the Portland and Oregon economy.