It's Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month, named in honor of James Parkinson, who was the first to medically describe the symptoms of the "shaking palsy" in 1817.

Those living with the disease, as well as their families and caregivers, are invited to the Coeur d'Alene Parkinson's Support Group's Living Well with Parkinson's Symposium from 2 to 5 p.m. April 26 at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library.

"It’s important for people to have a support group who are going through the challenges of this disease,” Parkinson's Support Group secretary Beth Hatcher said Tuesday.

She said North Idaho has a large population of people with Parkinson's. About 150 of those folks are on the support group's email list, and about 40 attend the meetings.

"It’s growing every day," Hatcher said.

The Living Well symposium will feature Dr. Karin Duncan, physical therapist Rich Mehlbrech, medical assistant Gunnar Amos and personal trainer Kristi Merten.

"We’ve got some great people coming to speak," Hatcher said. "We’re trying to get people out of their homes and socializing and exercising, that’s really the only control over the disease."

Guests do not need to register for the free event.

Contact Hatcher at 208-635-5243 for details.

The Coeur d'Alene Parkinson's Support Group meets from noon to 2:30 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at the Coeur d'Alene Elks Lodge, 1170 W. Prairie Ave. The group offers information, emotional support and often hosts speakers from the medical community.

Info: cdaparkinsons.com