Calendar of Events

Bringing together Parkinson’s research updates, medication education, and guided movement to support people living with Parkinson’s.

This afternoon program brings together two neurologists and a Parkinson’s specific movement instructor for education and open conversation. Dr. Joseph Quinn, MD, Director of the OHSU Parkinson Center, will share current Parkinson’s research developments and opportunities, including what recent advances mean for patients and care partners and how individuals can become more involved in research efforts. Dr. Tyler Clark, MD, of Bend Neurological Associates, will provide an overview of the medications used to treat both motor and non motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, with a focus on how treatments are selected, adjusted over time, and discussed with care teams.

View Empower Bend flyer.

Free registration required. More info and registration at pro.eventbrite.com

April 14: Food As Medicine: The Power of Plants

With Members of VegNet Bend

Join us for an engaging afternoon exploring the power of plant-based nutrition. Longtime plant-based food enthusiasts from VegNet Bend will share practical tips, personal insights and simple ways to incorporate more whole plant foods into everyday meals. The program also includes a 20-minute TEDx talk by Dr. Michael Greger highlighting the research linking diet and chronic disease. Whether you’re plant-curious or already plant-based, you’ll leave with inspiring ideas and helpful tools to support better health.

Lunch & Learns: Feed your body & mind as local experts share their knowledge about topics important to you. Bring your own brown bag lunch; dessert and coffee are on us. This is a free event. Presented in partnership with PacificSource Health Plans.

April 21: The Poetry Express, On the Road with Oregon’s Poet Laureate

With Ellen Waterston, Poet Laureate of Oregon

In 2024, the award-winning author and poet Ellen Waterston was named as the eleventh Poet Laureate of Oregon. Having so far visited 22 out of 36 counties across the state, Waterston will reflect on her first term and her Poetry in Public Places initiative underway statewide. In addition, she will read some of her work and even offer writing exercises for the audience to try. For decades Ellen has dedicated herself to writing and advocating for the literary arts in the high desert region of Oregon, all the while continuing to write poetry and nonfiction works that have evolved into essential reading about Oregon and the West.

Lunch & Learns: Feed your body & mind as local experts share their knowledge about topics important to you. Bring your own brown bag lunch; dessert and coffee are on us. This is a free event. Presented in partnership with PacificSource Health Plans.

April 28: Stay Healthy, Stay Active

With Dr. Dale Ellwein, chiropractor, author, lecturer & wellness lifestyle expert

Join us for an empowering health talk about how to maintain flexibility, strength and vitality as you age. Dr. Ellwein will share simple, effective stretches for every fitness level and tips for reducing falls and staying active and independent. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how small changes can make a big difference in your golden years.

Lunch & Learns: Feed your body & mind as local experts share their knowledge about topics important to you. Bring your own brown bag lunch; dessert and coffee are on us. This is a free event. Presented in partnership with PacificSource Health Plans.