Gerald R. Ford

“ Of all the illnesses threatening our. older citizens, Parkinson's disease is one of the most devastating. One in forty Americans past middle age may be afflicted. The human as well as monetary costs are virtually incalculable.
Ten years ago, when the first proclamation of National Parkinson Week was issued and signed into law, a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease was usually accompanied by advice to the family that little could be done. Today, there is much that can be done, and prospects are steadily improving. ”

“ I urge physicians, scientists and government and private agencies concerned with Parkinson's disease to sponsor activities designed to inform every American of the need to continue the struggle and the need of their support. ”

“ I invite the Governors of the States and appropriate local government officials to support National Parkinson Week activities, and I urge the Nation's mass communications media to join in encouraging all Americans to heed the message. ”