XMWare

2026-11-13T12:01:01

(BPT) – Allied World is the first corporate award founder of the Make-A-Wish Starblazer Awards.

Today, Make-A-Wish announced its 2026 Starblazer Award honorees, recognizing nine wish alumni who exemplify the lasting power of a wish. Now in its second year, the national program honors wish alumni, previous wish recipients, who, inspired by the hope and strength from their wish experiences, are creating positive change through service, advocacy and philanthropy in their communities and beyond.

The Starblazer Awards are powered by generous award-founding donors whose financial support celebrates the achievements of wish alumni while helping make future wishes possible. This year, Allied World joined the distinguished group with a $1 million gift, becoming the first corporate award founder for the national program.

“As the first corporate sponsor of the Starblazer Awards, we are proud to support a program that shines a spotlight on these remarkable individuals and the long-term influence of Make-A-Wish,” said Wes Dupont, Chief Operating Officer of Allied World. “Our $1 million commitment reflects our belief in the organization’s vision to reach every eligible child and Allied World’s desire to help more children experience the hope, strength and possibility that a wish can bring.”

A proud partner of Make-A-Wish for more than 10 years, Allied World has sponsored over 50 wishes through the Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley chapter and provides ongoing funding to help create unforgettable wish experiences for children with critical illnesses. Now, as a Starblazer Award Founder, Allied World is building on that commitment by honoring the long-lasting impact of a wish while helping more children receive a wish when they need it most.

“We have seen the profound impact a wish can have on a child and their family,” Dupont said. “Families frequently share how the experience provided hope and optimism during a challenging time, and how its positive impact stayed with them long after the wish was fulfilled. Through programs such as the Starblazer Awards, we also see how those experiences can continue to shape lives for years to come, inspiring wish alumni to make meaningful contributions within their communities.”

In addition to Allied World, the Starblazer Awards are made possible by award-founding donors Jeff and Anna Saplis, Jeff and Jenny Wright and Family, Jim and Colleen Clark, Michael Halle, Paul and Angie Martino, The John Dawson Foundation, The Montgomery Family and The Robinson Foundation.

Together, their support makes it possible to celebrate nine distinct wish alumni this year:

• Brian Chin, recipient of The Allied World Starblazer Award
  Brian credits his wish as the “first domino” in experiences that shaped his life 23 years ago, and he has since helped grant 16 wishes as a Make-A-Wish volunteer.
• Miles Boyd, recipient of The Jeff and Anna Saplis Quiet Angel Foundation Starblazer Award
  Two years after his wish brought him peace and joy as he faced a brain tumor diagnosis, Miles now shares his story and serves his community to help create that same sense of hope and joy for others.
• Meredith Kass, recipient of The Paul and Angie Martino Starblazer Award
  Seven years after her wish gave her renewed hope for the future, Meredith now teaches at the same school where her wish was inspired and helps students raise funds to support their education.
• Jason Lansdown, recipient of The Robinson Foundation Starblazer Award
  Seventeen years since his wish to give back to the Limb Preservation Foundation after losing his right knee, Jason has built a career serving the limb salvage community, making the cause at the center of his wish the center of his professional life.
• Brady Lucas, recipient of The Olivia Colleen Starblazer Award
  Eighteen years since his wish uplifted his spirits during his leukemia journey, Brady has helped raise millions for childhood cancer causes and built a career in academic medical fundraising.
• Michael Monteleone, recipient of The Michael Halle Starblazer Award
  Michael’s wish provided him with something joyful to look forward to during his journey with leukemia more than 35 years ago, and now, he has spent the past 12 years helping create that same life-changing experience for other children as a volunteer wish granter.
• Carlos Cesar Becerril Romero, recipient of The John Dawson Foundation Starblazer Award
  Carlos’ wish came true 25 years ago, and today, he is a pediatric nephrologist caring for children facing kidney disease at the same hospital where he received his kidney transplant.
• Aiden Salazar, recipient of The Wright Family Starblazer Award
  A decade after his wish to have a drawing tablet, Aiden continues to use the tablet to create superhero-inspired cards that bring joy to other wish kids.
• Mariana Valencia, recipient of The Monty Starblazer Award
  Mariana’s wish helped her family reconnect during her cancer journey four years ago, and today, she leads a nonprofit she founded to help children in Guatemala access resources and support throughout their medical treatment.

To read the honorees’ full stories and learn more about the Starblazer Awards, visit wish.org/starblazer.

2026-11-13T10:43:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Sanofi

As you age, you may think joint aches and pains or feeling tired are just normal parts of getting older. While that can be true, it is not always the case. If you find it harder to get up in the morning, and you can’t do many of the everyday tasks you used to do comfortably, you could have a common condition called polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR).

Here are important facts about the disease you should know, and signs to watch for.

1. What is PMR?

PMR is a common inflammatory rheumatic disease and is the second most common rheumatic disease after rheumatoid arthritis.[1] Rheumatic diseases cause the body’s immune system to attack joints, muscles, bones and organs.[2]

PMR starts in the large joints including the shoulders, hips and neck. People aged 50 years or older have a greater risk of developing PMR, and women are two to three times more likely to be affected than men.[3]

2. Typical PMR symptoms

Common symptoms of PMR[3] to watch for include:

• Joint swelling
• Morning stiffness
• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Mild fever
• Fatigue

3. How PMR disrupts daily life

The symptoms of PMR, especially the associated pain, can be debilitating and may disrupt everyday life. Sleep interruptions can make you feel tired during the day, and for many people, the pain and stiffness can feel worse in the morning.[4]

PMR can also make everyday activities like walking, showering, brushing your hair or teeth, or even rolling over in bed feel much more difficult.

4. Diagnosing PMR

Because its symptoms overlap with many other age-related conditions, PMR can be difficult to diagnose, requiring rheumatologists to assess a variety of factors to confirm it.[5]

These factors may include:

• your specific symptoms
• a physical examination
• imaging of the affected joints, such as hips and shoulders
• blood tests to determine your inflammation markers

“Patients as young as 50 years old through their 80s or 90s come in to see us saying, ‘I’m having shoulder pain,’ or ‘I haven’t been able to get out of bed,'” says board-certified rheumatologist Puja Chitkara, M.D. “Their pain may be attributed to arthritis or rotator cuff disease, but that may not be what’s really going on.”

When you have PMR, your immune system isn’t working as it should. Your body thinks it’s under attack and tries to fend off the attack with inflammatory proteins. Through a blood test, doctors can detect a protein called interleukin-6, or IL-6, a common protein seen in patients with PMR.[1] High levels of IL-6 can cause pain, stiffness and fatigue.

5. Discussing symptoms with your doctor

Clearly describing all of the symptoms you’re experiencing will help your doctor to identify the underlying cause.

“One of the biggest hurdles to correctly diagnosing PMR is underreporting of symptoms,” says Chitkara. “When the disease first starts, a lot of patients may say, ‘Oh, this could just be arthritis,’ or downplay their fatigue and other symptoms.”

Many people with PMR may have other concurrent conditions that can complicate both their diagnosis and best course of treatment. This makes it even more important for people experiencing symptoms associated with PMR to be thorough when discussing their condition with members of their healthcare team.

Consider keeping a journal of your symptoms so you can report them to your healthcare provider more accurately. For example, note the length of time you’ve experienced your symptoms, when they occur and how these symptoms affect your daily activities. It may also be helpful to keep a record of how much pain you’re experiencing day to day.

6. Treating PMR

The first line of treatment for PMR is an oral glucocorticoids (GCs),[1] such as prednisone, which is a type of corticosteroid. Low to moderate dosages of GCs can help relieve PMR symptoms. Steroids may reduce the inflammation that causes pain and stiffness. As you start to feel better, your doctor will slowly lower your dose of steroids over time.

“Because long-term use of steroids can be associated with many side effects such as osteoporosis, cataracts and diabetes, we like to slowly taper patients off of steroids and consider steroid sparing advanced treatments early in the disease course if they are unable to taper or have other associated conditions,” explains Chitkara.

If you’re still experiencing persistent pain and stiffness, ask your doctor if adding another treatment option to your treatment plan could help control your symptoms.

In addition to medications, many people with PMR find that lifestyle modifications can help improve symptoms[4] and daily functioning.

“Your healthcare team may provide additional support including appropriate exercise, physical therapy and nutrition guidance tailored to your individual needs,” adds Chitkara.

7. Learn more about PMR

If you have pain and stiffness in your hips, shoulders and neck, your primary care doctor may suspect PMR. Ask if you need a referral to see a rheumatologist, who will test you for PMR and prescribe treatment. If you’ve been diagnosed with PMR, your doctor will help you to find a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Visit PMRAndYou.com to learn more about polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms, diagnosis, support and treatment options.

2026-11-13T13:37:00

(BPT) – Medicare runs on a calendar, and understanding the deadlines can help you make informed coverage decisions and avoid late-enrollment penalties.

When you can sign up — and how long you have — depends on your age, whether you’re still working, and whether you’re already receiving Social Security benefits. Some people are enrolled automatically. Others can sign up during a designated enrollment period, with a separate timeframe for choosing a Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plan.

2026-11-12T08:15:00

(BPT) – Car repairs can be expensive, and the cost of repairs isn’t universal. In fact, several factors can make a car repair more or less expensive — and understanding these differences can help you make more informed decisions.

A recent auto repair cost study conducted for Synchrony by Stephens & Associates in Q1 2026 compared the average cost of 32 repairs common to four benchmark vehicles: Toyota Camry, Toyota RAV4, Ford F-150 and a Lexus RX 350h. The findings revealed the following top five factors that can make a huge difference in how much you’ll pay for your vehicle’s repair.

1. The type of repair shop

When your car needs work, do you take it to a dealership, chain or independent shop? Where you go for repairs matters as much as what is being fixed.

According to the price benchmark study, the repair on the same vehicle costs a median of 53% more at dealerships than at independent shops, an average of about $232 more per repair. In dollar terms, that is roughly $460 more for a RAV4 windshield and about $1,430 more for an F-150 full suspension overhaul.

2. Location

Location is also an important factor that can affect your repair costs. According to the auto repair cost study, Camry front brake pads cost $144 at a West Virginia independent shop and $303 at a Washington, D.C., dealership: same pads, same car, but a 2.1-times price difference.

That said, shop choice still outweighs geography almost every time. On 133 of 137 repairs, an independent shop in the priciest market (Washington, D.C.) is still cheaper than a dealership in the cheapest one (West Virginia).

3. Car maintenance

Addressing a small problem early may help avoid a larger repair bill down the road. For example, a chip repair costs an average of $114. Compare that to the cost of a windshield replacement, which costs an average of $1,037 to $1,304, a nine- to 11-times cost difference.

4. Technology

One thing to keep in mind when calculating repair costs is your car’s technology. Many newer cars have advanced safety systems that rely on a front-facing camera mounted on the windshield near the rearview mirror. If you have to replace your windshield, you’ll also have to recalibrate the camera, adding another cost to your receipt.

According to the auto repair cost study, camera recalibration now costs roughly a third of the price of a windshield. The stand-alone service averages $336, compared with $1,037 for a Camry replacement and $483 for a Lexus replacement.

5. Vehicle type

Finally, the type of vehicle you drive will be an important factor that determines repair costs. According to the price benchmarks study, the average repair costs for the Camry and RAV4 were comparable across most of the 32 common repair categories.

However, the F-150 was higher than the Camry on 21 of its 35 repairs and sharply higher on heavy-duty components. For example, its alternator is two times the Toyota’s ($1,384 vs. $678), and its full suspension overhaul is about $1,250 more than the Camry’s ($3,336 vs. $2,085). The hybrid Lexus had the steepest costs on AC, windshield, electrical systems and the full brake job, and was the most expensive vehicle on about two-thirds of its repairs.

You can’t anticipate every car repair, but you can be better prepared for what those repairs cost. To learn more about car repair costs, including options for financing them, visit Synchrony.com.

The information, opinions and recommendations expressed in the article are for informational purposes only. Information has been obtained from sources generally believed to be reliable. However, because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by our sources, or any other, Synchrony does not provide any warranty as to the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of any information for its intended purpose or any results obtained from the use of such information. The data presented in the article was current as of the time of writing. Please consult with your individual advisors with respect to any information presented.

2026-11-11T16:31:00

(BPT) – When winter power outages hit, older adults face the highest risk. They rely on electricity to power their homes, including everything they need to help keep them safe, healthy and comfortable no matter what the weather is doing.

In fact, over 3 million Medicare beneficiaries rely on electricity-dependent medical and assistive equipment at home, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services emPOWER program. Cold temperatures hit older adults hardest. As people age, it can be harder for them to tell when they are dangerously cold, which may increase their risk for hypothermia.

The winter calls for extra planning. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) expects a very strong El Nino, which means wetter-than-average conditions will be most likely across the Southwest, the South and the East Coast. Americans are also spending more time without power: U.S. electricity customers averaged about 11 hours of interruptions in 2024, nearly double the average of the previous decade, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Families aren’t waiting for the first storm. Jackery saw sold-out demand for its home backup solutions in late October and early November, as more households look for power that doesn’t depend on the grid or the gas pump.

Before the holidays, take stock of what your household would need if the power stayed out. Water, food and electricity are the three essentials, and electricity is the easiest to overlook. Start with seven days, and consider building to 30. Here’s how you can make sure that you, and the people you love, are covered all winter long.

Give the gift of power, warmth and self-reliance

One of the best additions to your holiday gift list this year is a home that can keep running on its own power, no matter what the weather or the grid dishes out. Jackery, the world’s No. 1 solar generator brand by volume and revenue, according to Frost & Sullivan, offers ideas for lighter, easier-to-move solar-powered solutions to help give you and your loved ones peace of mind this winter.

A traditional generator runs on gas, and gas has averaged more than $4 a gallon this fall, according to AAA. That means trips to the pump and storage cans, often right when a storm is coming. It also has to stay outside. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns never to run a portable generator inside a home or garage, and reports that nearly 100 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning linked to portable generators.

Jackery’s solar generator solutions work differently. There’s no gas to buy, nothing to pour or pull-start and no exhaust, so they’re quiet, fume-free and safe to use indoors. Frost & Sullivan recognized Jackery as the Most Trusted Safety-First Solar Generator Brand. Paired with solar panels, they recharge on free sunlight, even while the grid is down. That matters especially for older adults who may be living alone.

Here are some of the options to choose from that can help you and your family members be better prepared for an outage.

• HomePower 1000 v2 is about 23.4 pounds and comes with a convenient carry handle. This model offers 1024 Watt Hours (Wh) capacity and 1500W output, with 3kV surge protection to ensure that the power station and your devices remain unharmed during power spikes, lightning strikes or sudden restarts. And thanks to Jackery Priority Routing™ you can decide what stays powered: When the battery reaches your preset level, it automatically shuts down less critical devices and keeps essentials like your refrigerator, router, lights and other appliances running as long as possible.
• HomePower 2000 Plus v2 also comes with a carry handle for ease of use, and it weighs just 41.45 pounds. This unit has a 2048Wh capacity and 2400W output, expandable up to 12kWh. Smart Energy Management and Jackery Priority Routing™ seamlessly keeps essential circuits running during shortages, based on your priority. With 6,000+ LFP battery cycles, you’ll enjoy peace of mind for years to come.
• HomePower 3600 Plus has built-in wheels and a pull handle to let you roll it wherever power is needed: indoors, outdoors or to your vehicle. You can keep your home running on its own even in extended outages thanks to its 3584Wh capacity and 3600W output; 7.2kWh when paired with a Battery Pack, expandable up to 21.6kWh. It’s built to last up to 16 years and connects directly to a home’s circuits through a Manual Transfer Switch. Best yet, there’s no complicated setup: Just plug in, press start and your home is protected.

A single unit runs 120V appliances like refrigerators, portable AC units, coffee makers and more. You can also connect two units to power larger appliances such as well pumps and dryers with 240V output. At just 30dB, which is about as quiet as a library, the HomePower 3600 Plus runs in the background without disturbing your sleep or your household.

When the lights go out, the last thing you or your loved ones need is more to worry about. A prepared home doesn’t wait for the grid to come back. If you’re looking for a meaningful, practical present for the people you love this holiday season, visit Jackery.com.

2026-11-11T10:01:01

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Your kitchen and bathroom are the first spaces you clean when guests are visiting.
• Get more out of your cleaning routine by following the right steps, choosing the right products and upgrading to fixtures that work harder for you, like those from Delta Faucet, America’s #1 faucet brand.[1]
• Four tips to help keep high-traffic spaces like kitchens and bathrooms clean.

When it comes to keeping your home clean, two rooms consistently demand the most attention: the kitchen and the bathroom. They’re also usually the first spaces you focus on before guests arrive. A few smart strategies can help keep these high-traffic areas looking their best every day. From maximizing your cleaning routine to choosing the right tools designed to make household tasks easier, simple changes help you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your home.

Work smarter, not harder

For the most effective clean, always start from the top of the room and work your way down. Dust, debris and hair naturally fall onto lower surfaces, making floors the last area you should clean.

In both kitchens and bathrooms, begin with a dry clean before using any cleaning products. Start by clearing surface clutter, then use a microfiber cloth to remove loose dust, crumbs, debris and hair. Once surfaces are free of buildup, follow up with your preferred cleaning spray or wipe.

You can also help avoid cross-contamination by color-coding your microfiber cloths, cleaning towels and sponges: Designate one set for the kitchen and another for the bathroom.

Kitchen and bathroom fixtures designed for easy cleanup

Most cleaning advice focuses on what to spray, wipe or scrub. But the fixtures in your kitchen and bathroom can also make a meaningful difference in how quickly everyday messes get cleaned up. One easy home upgrade to help streamline your cleaning routine are products featuring Delta^® ProClean™ technology. Designed to help make everyday cleaning faster and easier in both the kitchen and bathroom, ProClean™ technology uses a concentrated fan-shaped spray to cover more surface area and help tackle difficult messes with less scrubbing.

The Delta^® ProClean™ Kitchen Spray features a powerful, wide fan spray that helps tackle everyday messes — from food stuck to the sink to debris around corners and drains. Its broad stream covers more surface area than a typical spray, helping rinse the sink efficiently and reach awkward spots with fewer repeated passes.

In the bathroom, the Delta^® ProClean™ Hand Shower helps clean shower surfaces faster, tackling soap scum up to two times faster than standard sprays. The focused, wide fan spray lets you easily clean hard-to-reach places, such as corners and drains, and to rinse away soap scum on shower walls and tile surfaces, making routine shower maintenance quicker and easier.

Whether you’re cleaning up after a busy week or preparing for guests, products featuring Delta^® ProClean™ technology can help reduce scrubbing time and simplify everyday cleaning tasks. Available across a wide variety of Delta^® kitchen faucets and hand showers, ProClean™ technology offers options to complement virtually any kitchen or bathroom design style while helping homeowners spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying their homes.

How to let your cleaning products do the heavy lifting

One of the easiest ways to save time is to let your cleaning products work while you move on to another task. After decluttering and dry wiping surfaces in the kitchen, apply your favorite spray cleaner to surfaces and appliances. Let that cleaner sit for the time recommended on the label as you head to the guest bathroom to complete your dry wipe and apply cleaner there.

By the time you’ve finished spraying the bathroom, the products in the kitchen will have had time to help break down grime, grease and buildup. Return to the kitchen to wipe everything down, then repeat the process in other bathrooms as needed.

Opt for pull-down bathroom faucets for efficient cleaning

Bathroom sinks see a lot, from dirt and germs to toothpaste and hair trimmings. Another great option to help you clean your bathroom more efficiently is using Delta^® pull-down bathroom faucets. These nimble, pull-down bathroom faucets make clean-up of dirt and debris, including toothpaste and soap residue, a lot easier. And with Delta^® MagnaTite^® Docking, a powerful integrated magnet pulls your faucet spray wand precisely into place and holds it there, so it stays docked when not in use.

A little preparation can go a long way toward making everyday maintenance easier. Find more ways to elevate your kitchen and bathroom — and keep them cleaner — at DeltaFaucet.com.

[1] Based on 2025 US dollar sales

2026-11-11T09:01:00

(BPT) – About 7 in 10 people turning 65 will need some form of long-term care. Planning for long-term care now is a gift to your future self, and to everyone who would want to be there for you.

2026-11-10T12:01:01

(BPT) – For Simone Duven, using her hands isn’t optional. Paralyzed from the waist down, she relies on them to move her wheelchair, transfer in and out of bed and shift her weight to help prevent pressure sores. When pain began shooting through both wrists, even everyday movements were tough.

The pain kept getting worse, sometimes feeling like a vise tightening inside her wrist. She often woke with numb hands and never knew which movement might set off the pain. “My hands are everything,” she said.

Eventually, Simone was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a condition caused by pressure or compression on the median nerve as it travels through a narrow wrist passageway, causing numbness and tingling in the wrists and fingers. CTS is especially common with wheelchair users, as it requires repetitive arm and wrist motions that can cause major strain on the median nerve.

When Surgery Didn’t Feel Like an Option

Heat provided some short-term relief, but Simone worried that surgery could jeopardize her independence. With traditional carpal tunnel release (CTR) surgeries, recovery can take weeks to months, potentially requiring time in a rehabilitation hospital and separate recoveries for each wrist.

While visiting her orthopedic clinic, Simone heard about ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release (UGCTR) using UltraGuideCTR^® from Sonex Health. By attending an informational session, she learned that physicians can perform the minimally invasive technique through a small wrist incision, using ultrasound guidance to visualize critical anatomy. It could be performed with local anesthesia and that she likely could recover at home rather than in a rehabilitation facility. That made a big difference to Simone, who decided to move forward.

An Accessible Procedure

Before her procedure, Simone asked her physician, Dr. Steven Niedermeier of TMI Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery, if she could remain in her wheelchair since transfers onto exam tables can be difficult. He agreed and positioned a table beside her chair. Throughout the procedure, Simone talked with her physician and watched the ultrasound images as he worked. She felt like a participant in her own care.

Quickly Getting Back to What She Loves

Simone chose to have both wrists treated during the same visit. Afterward, she was able to transfer from her wheelchair into the car for the ride home. It was “pretty painful,” but she was happy to be headed home rather than to a rehabilitation facility, possibly in an ambulance.

The first weekend was challenging for Simone. She notes that if she had to do it again, she would have done one wrist at a time, “Even if I had done one wrist at a time, the amount of recovery time would still be next to nothing compared to what it would be if I had to have open carpal tunnel surgery.”

Despite the first weekend being tough, a few days after the procedure, Simone was already becoming self-sufficient again.

A Return to Independence

Today, she no longer wakes up with numb hands or spends her days worrying about wrist pain. She’s back to painting and doing arts and crafts without her wrists bothering her. And as a self-described “clean freak,” she’s happy to be able to sweep, mop and do laundry without the pain that once made everyday chores difficult.

For others who may be putting off treatment because they’re worried about recovery, Simone has some simple advice: “Don’t be afraid of it.”

And when she thinks about what the procedure meant for her independence, she puts it best: “My sense of autonomy remained mine.”

To learn more about UGCTR using UltraGuideCTR, visit www.CureMyCarpalTunnel.com.

2026-11-10T15:13:00

(BPT) – When Tony Hindhaugh was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 55, he learned that there are currently no approved therapies that slow the progression of the disease. Current treatments focus primarily on managing symptoms of the progressive brain disorder, leaving patients and families hoping for new options.

That’s why he was interested in NEULARK, a new study for people with early Parkinson’s who haven’t started medication for their symptoms yet.

“My Parkinson’s symptoms are very mild. At present, the tremor is the only thing that gives it away,” said Hindhaugh. “It hasn’t interrupted anything in my life, but it has made me think and slow down a bit.”

Although Hindhaugh’s symptoms are currently mild, Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, meaning symptoms can worsen over time. Researchers are now studying whether new treatments could slow that progression, particularly when started in the early stages of the disease. That is why it is so important for patients recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their families to understand their options early.

What is Parkinson’s disease, and what are the early signs?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement and can cause symptoms that gradually change over time. While the disease affects everyone differently, early signs may include a slight tremor in the hand or fingers, stiffness, slower movement, changes in handwriting or difficulties with balance. Some people may also experience non-movement symptoms, such as changes in sleep, sense of smell or mood.

Because these early symptoms can be subtle, they may initially go unnoticed or be mistaken for normal signs of aging. Recognizing these changes and speaking with a healthcare provider can be an important first step toward diagnosis and exploring available care and research opportunities.

Parkinson’s disease affects millions of people worldwide, and scientists today are learning more about the biological differences that may contribute to Parkinson’s, opening the door to developing treatments matched to the specific cause of a person’s disease.

Research with a new focus

One area of growing interest involves a protein called LRRK2 (pronounced “lark two”). Proteins act like tiny machines in our bodies. In some individuals, LRRK2 works too hard and may lead to the build-up of damaged proteins that can harm brain cells.

“LRRK2 is a protein normally found in our bodies and is very important in normal cellular processes,” explained Dr. Danielle Larson, a movement disorders specialist and NEULARK trial investigator. “The LRRK2 protein can be overactive in certain individuals, and we know this LRRK2 protein pathway overactivity is found in approximately 30% of people with Parkinson’s disease.”

Researchers in the Phase 2 NEULARK clinical trial are studying whether inhibiting this LRRK2 protein could slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease, rather than focusing solely on managing symptoms.

What makes this research different?

This study is exploring a more personalized approach to Parkinson’s research. One of the challenges in treating Parkinson’s disease is that the underlying causes can differ from person to person. In the NEULARK study, researchers are using genetic screening to identify people who may have increased LRRK2 activity and could be more likely to benefit from a medicine designed to target that pathway. This approach allows researchers to study a potential treatment in a specific group of patients based on the biology of their disease.

Importantly, people interested in the study do not need to know their genetic status beforehand. The screening process begins with a simple at-home saliva test, available at no cost, to determine whether they may be eligible to participate.

“As clinicians and researchers, we know Parkinson’s disease is not a one-size-fits-all condition,” said Dr. Larson. “This is why it’s important to understand more about the underlying biological drivers of Parkinson’s. By understanding this more, we would be able to develop more targeted therapeutics.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Who may be eligible for the trial? The trial is seeking people between ages 40 and 80 who have been diagnosed with early Parkinson’s disease, have not yet started medications to manage Parkinson’s symptoms, and are not expected to need these medications within the next 12 months. Eligible participants will need to meet the trial’s genetic screening and other eligibility requirements.
• How does the genetic testing work? Interested individuals can access investigational genetic testing at no cost to help determine whether they may qualify for the trial. The screening process begins with a simple at-home saliva test, making it easier to explore potential eligibility without an initial trip to a clinical trial site.
• How is technology being used in the trial? NEULARK is using innovative smartphone-based technology to help researchers measure how Parkinson’s symptoms change over time. Participants will receive a smartphone equipped with specialized software to complete daily activities that measure movement, tremors and aspects of thinking and memory. Because Parkinson’s symptoms can fluctuate throughout the day, these more frequent measurements may help researchers capture changes that could be missed during scheduled clinic visits.
• How can people learn more? NEULARK is currently enrolling participants and recruitment for the trial is expected to conclude in the coming months. This makes now an important time to explore whether you or a loved one may qualify. Learn more about the study, eligibility requirements and free genetic screening at NEULARK.com.

“Participation in clinical trials is really important for our ability to understand more about Parkinson’s disease, its underlying biology and to understand if specific therapeutics and development are going to be safe and effective,” said Dr. Larson.

If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, visit NEULARK.com to learn more about the study, eligibility and genetic screening at no cost.

2026-11-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is filled with festive gatherings, beloved traditions and opportunities to make lasting memories with family and friends. Between decorating, shopping and planning celebrations, it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday rush. That’s exactly why taking the time to slow down and enjoy the little things together can make the season more special.

To help loved ones share meaningful moments during the hustle and bustle, actress, producer, mom and Eggland’s Best partner Tamera Mowry-Housley shares four simple tips to bring more joy and connection to celebrations and gatherings.

1. Gather in the heart of the home

Some of the best holiday memories are made in the kitchen. Mowry-Housley recommends inviting the whole family to prepare festive recipes together, turning everyday cooking and baking into opportunities for deeper connection and new traditions.

You can give kids easy tasks like whisking eggs, measuring ingredients and decorating treats. These experiences not only get everyone in on the fun, but also allow younger family members to build skills and confidence and learn how to make recipes that they can look forward to, year after year.

2. Create moments that matter

With so much happening during the holidays, it’s easy to want everything to be perfect, and that can make it more difficult to live in the moment. Mowry-Housley encourages families to slow down and set aside time to chat and share experiences with each other.

Go around the dinner table and have everyone discuss their favorite memory from the past year, look through old holiday photos or start a gratitude jar for everyone to write down what they’re thankful for. These lighthearted activities can help bring everyone closer and make unforgettable memories that last beyond the holiday season.

3. Incorporate movement into holiday traditions

Gathering around the table for meals isn’t the only way to spend quality time with family and friends. It can also be beneficial to incorporate movement into holiday traditions to boost energy and lift everyone’s mood.

Take an evening stroll to admire neighborhood holiday lights, bundle up to build a snowman or turn on your favorite holiday playlist for an impromptu dance party. These are fun and easy ways to stay active while enjoying company.

4. Fuel holiday gatherings

The holidays are all about bringing loved ones together, and hosting doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re planning a festive brunch or welcoming family for Christmas morning, preparing simple, crowd-pleasing dishes ahead of time can help take the stress out of entertaining and give you more time to enjoy the celebration.

For a delicious and nutritious addition to your holiday spread, try Tamera Mowry-Housley’s Christmas Morning Egg Bake featuring Eggland’s Best eggs. This savory, comforting dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and bringing everyone together around the breakfast table.

Compared to ordinary eggs, Eggland’s Best eggs contain more than double the Vitamin B12 to help you feel full longer and six times more Vitamin D to support your body’s immunity throughout the holidays and cold season. Eggland’s Best eggs also have 25% less saturated fat, more than double the Omega-3s and ten times more Vitamin E. Eggland’s Best superior nutrition is due to its proprietary all-vegetarian hen feed that contains healthy grains, canola oil and a wholesome supplement of rice bran, alfalfa, sea kelp and Vitamin E.

Eggland’s Best x Hallmark Channel Sweepstakes

Eggland’s Best has teamed up with Hallmark Channel for the first time ever to help share fun, festive recipes and create unforgettable memories.

The “Egg-citing Hallmark Holiday” Sweepstakes gives fans the chance to win prizes designed to make the season even more special. Now through December 22, fans can enter daily at EBFamilySweeps.com for a chance to win the Grand Prize of $5,000 toward your celebrations, Hallmark Channel and Eggland’s Best swag and a three-month supply of EB eggs. Seven weekly winners will also have the chance to win a $250 gift card, branded swag and more.

Christmas Morning Egg Bake

Oven: 350°F | Bake: 25–30 minutes

Recipe by Eggland’s Best Partner Tamera Mowry-Housley

This oven-baked delight uses Eggland’s Best eggs as an egg-citing addition to a tradition egg bake. It’s perfect for your next holiday brunch party.

INGREDIENTS

• 12 Eggland’s Best eggs, large, beaten
• 8 slices bacon, diced
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 6 ounces baby spinach
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Butter, for greasing the baking dish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a baking dish.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until softened. Add the onion and continue cooking until the bacon begins to brown.

3. Add the red and green peppers. Cover and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the bacon is browned. Stir in the garlic and spinach and cook for another minute.

4. Remove from the heat and let the mixture cool.

5. Whisk the eggs with the salt and pepper in a large bowl. Stir in the cooled bacon and vegetables, followed by the cheddar cheese.

6. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Find additional recipe inspiration and learn more about Eggland’s Best eggs at EgglandsBest.com.