Effective Approaches for Memory Loss
Sep
3
8:30 AM08:30

Effective Approaches for Memory Loss

Join us for an important discussion, Effective Approaches for Memory Loss, where a panel of experts will share insights on:

  • Diagnosing memory disorders

  • Best practices for care at home and in senior communities

  • How to connect with local resources for support

This event is designed for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and community members who want to deepen their understanding and improve the quality of care for those living with memory loss.

 

Our Speaker

Abigail Lawler, MD

Movement and Memory Disorders specialist with Inova Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Center (IPMDC)

Heather Suri

BSN RN CMC, Care Manager & CEO,
Pathways in Aging

 
 
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What’s the Real Meaning Behind the Recent Buzzword “Longevity”
Aug
6
8:30 AM08:30

What’s the Real Meaning Behind the Recent Buzzword “Longevity”

We’ve all heard the word “longevity” tossed around lately—but what does it really mean?

Join us for an insightful conversation exploring the true definition, impact, and importance of longevity in today’s world—especially as it relates to aging, health, purpose, and quality of life.

This is a great chance to connect, learn, and reflect with professionals and community members who are passionate about redefining what it means to live—and age—well.

Bring your curiosity. Let’s get real about longevity.

👉 RSVP Today

 

Our Speaker

Brian Wright, MS, CSCS—a personal trainer with over 25 years of experience and a passion for helping adults build strength, improve their health, and feel more confident in their bodies.

With advanced degrees in exercise science and top-tier certifications, he takes a science-backed, no-gimmicks approach to fitness. 

 
 
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Music Therapy 101 and its Impact on the Senior Population
Jun
4
8:30 AM08:30

Music Therapy 101 and its Impact on the Senior Population

We’re excited to invite you to our next monthly meeting at the Leesburg Area Agency on Aging!
🕣 Doors Open: 8:30 AM (Doors remain locked until then)
🍳 Breakfast will be provided!

🎤 Guest Speaker: Nicole Largent
💡 Topic: Music Therapy 101 and Its Impact on the Senior Population

Nicole Largent brings over a decade of experience as a board-certified music therapist with specialties in geriatrics, dementia, and end-of-life care. With advanced training in Neurologic and Hospice Music Therapy, her work has touched lives across senior living communities and hospice programs.

Come for the food, stay for the insights—and learn how music can become a powerful tool in senior care.

 

Our Speaker

Nicole Largent began her journey into music therapy by attending Ithaca College School of Music, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Music with an Outside Field in Psychology. She then received her Music Therapy Equivalency Degree from Florida State University and completed her Master’s degree in Music Therapy from Colorado State University. 

Since becoming board-certified in 2012, Nicole has specialized in geriatrics, dementia and end of life care, as well as completed advanced training in Neurologic and Hospice & Palliative Care Music Therapy. In addition, Nicole has served in a variety of leadership roles throughout her career and has several years of program development experience, both in senior living and hospice care. 

Outside of her career, Nicole enjoys spending time outdoors, gardening and on the water with her husband and their “fur children” while living on their farm in West Virginia. 

 
 
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Elder Fraud Aawareness and Prevention
May
7
8:30 AM08:30

Elder Fraud Aawareness and Prevention

Join us for an eye-opening discussion on elder fraud awareness and prevention with Courtney Alexander, a Certified Fraud Examiner and seasoned investigator. With decades of experience in risk management and fraud prevention, Courtney will guide us through common scams targeting older adults, signs to watch for, and proactive strategies to help safeguard our loved ones. Whether you’re a caregiver, professional, or advocate, this session will empower you to become a better fraud fighter in your community.

 

Our Speaker

Courtney Alexander, CFE, PCI, PI

Courtney Alexander is the Owner of Scabbard Consulting that specializes in Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) investigation, due diligence research, social media intelligence, publicly available information searches and risk mitigation consulting. Mr. Alexander has spent over 20 years working national security, and operational risk management issues in private security, federal law enforcement, and the intelligence community spanning a range of topics such as personal protection, threat management, counter-terrorism, intellectual property theft, human smuggling, trafficking, counter-proliferation and counterintelligence. He brings an array of knowledge with a focus on fraud prevention, asset protection and risk management.

 
 
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April Happy Hour
Apr
16
4:00 PM16:00

April Happy Hour

🍻 You're Invited to April Happy Hour with LSIN! 🍻
Wednesday, April 16th | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

📍 Freedom Mobility Solutions
21055 Ashburn Crossing Dr., Unit 120, Ashburn, VA
(Off Loudoun County Parkway, behind Ashby Ponds)

Join us for an afternoon of great company, light refreshments, and relaxed networking! Enjoy drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a chance to connect with fellow professionals in senior care.

Proudly hosted by:
🔹 Freedom Mobility Solutions – Your local experts in DME, home accessibility, and consultations in VA & MD
🔹 Golden Pond Elder Care Strategies, LLC – Providing compassionate care management and consultations across VA & WV

We can’t wait to see you there!

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Navigating Discussions About Death and Dying with Clients and Families
Mar
5
8:30 AM08:30

Navigating Discussions About Death and Dying with Clients and Families

Talking about death is never easy—but avoiding the conversation can make it even harder.

Having the Conversation: Navigating Discussions About Death and Dying will equip you with the tools and confidence to approach end-of-life discussions with empathy and clarity.

Join us for this essential session and learn how to guide clients and families through one of life’s most important conversations.

 

Our Speaker

Jill Bledsoe is a seasoned expert in the moving industry, combining professional expertise with a personal touch honed through a lifetime of experience. Having moved 21 times herself, Jill truly understands the challenges and emotions that come with relocation. With over eight years of professional experience, she has assisted thousands of families with local, long-distance, storage, and even international moves, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

For the past two years, Jill has dedicated her focus to senior moving, providing specialized support to help older adults transition seamlessly. Her personable, down-to-earth approach, coupled with genuine care and empathy, makes her an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of moving.

 
 
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Understanding Dysphagia: Signs, Risks, Causes, and the Role of the SLP
Feb
5
8:30 AM08:30

Understanding Dysphagia: Signs, Risks, Causes, and the Role of the SLP

This presentation will cover signs, risks, and causes of dysphagia, as well as the role of the speech language pathologist in evaluating and treating dysphagia. Topics will include assessment methods, brief introduction to evidence based interventions, and the impacts of dysphagia on overall health and quality of life.

 

Alicia Kress M.A., CCC-SLP is a certified speech language pathologist with 7 years of experience specializing in the evaluation and treatment of dysphagia, aphasia and other language disorders, motor speech disorders, and cognitive disorders. She holds a certification in LSVT Loud, McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program (MDTP), and the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP).

Alicia has worked with adults across a variety of clinical settings, including hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation, and home health. For the past two years, she has been a part of the Inova Loudoun Outpatient Specialty Rehabilitation team, where she continues to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care to adults with neurological and swallowing disorders.

 
 
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Top Ten Myths and Truths of Senior Moving
Feb
5
8:30 AM08:30

Top Ten Myths and Truths of Senior Moving

Moving can be challenging, especially for older adults navigating life transitions. Join us for an enlightening discussion with Jill Bledsoe, a seasoned expert in the moving industry, as she debunks common myths and reveals truths about senior moving. Drawing from her personal experience of relocating 21 times and over eight years of professional expertise, Jill will share invaluable insights and practical tips to make the process smoother and more manageable.

 

Jill Bledsoe is a seasoned expert in the moving industry, combining professional expertise with a personal touch honed through a lifetime of experience. Having moved 21 times herself, Jill truly understands the challenges and emotions that come with relocation. With over eight years of professional experience, she has assisted thousands of families with local, long-distance, storage, and even international moves, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

For the past two years, Jill has dedicated her focus to senior moving, providing specialized support to help older adults transition seamlessly. Her personable, down-to-earth approach, coupled with genuine care and empathy, makes her an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of moving.

 
 
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Lunch and Learn: A Discussion About the Opioid Crisis
Nov
20
11:30 AM11:30

Lunch and Learn: A Discussion About the Opioid Crisis

We will be collecting payment on the day of the event, with a cost of $30 per person.

If needed, please make checks payable to LSIN.

To secure your spot, kindly RSVP by November 15th by contacting Amy Coppa at amycoppa@afamilytie.com.

We look forward to seeing you at The Ashleigh at Lansdowne for our Lunch and Learn event!

We are excited to introduce our distinguished panelists for the upcoming Lunch and Learn event on the Opioid Crisis. Each panelist brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of this critical issue.

1. Jennifer Dagg, DNP, FNP-BC - Jennifer is a dedicated and compassionate Palliative Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of hospice and palliative experience, including one year as a provider. She is passionate about delivering high-quality patient-centered care, and is an experienced collaborator who excels in communication, improving health literacy, and building trust. Learn more about Jennifer here: https://www.linkedin.com/.../jennifer-dagg-dnp-fnp-bc.../

2. Dr. Nicholas J. Tannous - Dr. Nicholas J. Tannous enjoys being at the forefront in the pain medicine/physical medicine and rehabilitation field delivering quality care to his patients. “Great results are what continue to drive me as seeing my patients improve is a necessity for my motivation to continue pushing forward,” he said. Learn more about Dr. Tannous here: https://www.treatingpain.com/find-a.../nicholas-tannous-md/

3. Albert Fuchs - Albert Fuchs from Strive Pharmacy has been practicing pharmacy since 2008 and has been in management since 2015. He has experience in retail, long term care, and compounding pharmacy.

Together, our panelists will engage in a thoughtful discussion, addressing the complexities of the opioid crisis and exploring solutions to better support those in need. We look forward to a dynamic and informative session!

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Programs and Services for Older Adults and Caregivers
Nov
4
8:30 AM08:30

Programs and Services for Older Adults and Caregivers

Join us for an insightful session on Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging Programs and Services for Older Adults and Caregivers, led by Lesley Katz, MSW, a distinguished leader in aging services. With a deep dedication to enhancing quality and expanding support for older adults and caregivers, Lesley brings invaluable expertise in elder care, social determinants of health, and program development.

Lesley’s commitment to public service and her expertise in data-informed policy have shaped impactful programs, including the nationally award-winning Loudoun County Caregiver Program. Recognized among Loudoun’s 40 Under 40 (2021) and as a graduate of Leadership Loudoun (2020), Lesley’s passion and leadership make this session a must for anyone interested in learning more about aging services and caregiver support in Loudoun County.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore resources available to you and your loved ones in an environment of dignity, respect, and community care.

 

This month, we were pleased to feature Morningside of Leesburg as our spotlight speaker.

Each month, a Level 2 member has the chance to share insights and updates in a three-minute talk right after our educational presentation.

In addition, spotlight speakers can create a short “commercial” that we share on our social media and website for the month! This spotlight gives members a moment to connect and share what they’re all about in our community.

https://mhseniorliving.com/leesburg

 
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GIN JOINT: A WWII Casablanca Murder Mystery
Oct
16
3:00 PM15:00

GIN JOINT: A WWII Casablanca Murder Mystery

Step back in time to 1942 French Morocco for an immersive evening of intrigue and excitement at Dick’s Gin Joint.

Experience the glamour of the era with a night of swing music and suspenseful mystery. Amidst the vibrant backdrop, the scene is set with German couriers murdered and vital documents missing.

Colonel Kaput is on the hunt for suspects, and everyone is a potential player in this high-stakes game.

Will you blend into the crowd and avoid suspicion, or become entangled in the unfolding drama? Join us for a memorable night where the thrill of mystery meets the elegance of a bygone era.

Dinner will be provided.

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Why Insight?
Oct
2
8:30 AM08:30

Why Insight?

Join us for an inspiring session led by Melissa, an expert in memory care and therapeutic recreation, as she explores the vision behind IMCC’s holistic approach to care. IMCC is committed to creating a community where those affected by memory impairments can achieve the highest quality of life through a spectrum of personalized and compassionate care.

Our Speaker

Melissa is a graduate of the University of Southern Maine with a B.S. in Therapeutic Recreation and Leisure Studies and a minor in Health Studies. Melissa is a certified recreational therapist, certified dementia practitioner, and a Licensed BCAT® practitioner. Certified dementia practitioner and Dementia Capable Care Specialist.

Melissa has been providing care to older adults for 20+ years. She is also the recipient of the ATRA Frank L. Basile Clinician of the Year 2016. She has presented at numerous conferences and has published evidence-based practice programing.

She has had the opportunity to live in Romania and provide sensory integration for orphans. She also held the position of Social Coordinator for participants in the Cerebral Palsy - International Sports and Recreation Association (CP- ISRA) World Championship.

Through Melissa’s experience both clinically and in the community, she brings and provides out of the box thinking and support to both clients and caregivers daily.

 
 
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Heritage Hall for the Holidays!
Oct
1
to Dec 4

Heritage Hall for the Holidays!

This holiday season, LSIN is adopting the residents of Heritage Hall, and we need your help to make their holidays special! We are collecting donations of the following items:

  • Hand lotions, body spray (for men & women), aftershave

  • Scarves, headbands, bandanas

  • Gripper slippers or socks

  • Word search books, Sudoku books, playing cards

  • Small stuffed animals

You can drop off donations at any LSIN event or reach out to Amy Stanzione Coppa at amy@afamilytie.com for more details. Donations are needed by December 4.

Let’s work together to make the holidays brighter for these wonderful residents! Thank you for your generosity. 🎁

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Emerging Trends in Senior Living
Sep
4
8:30 AM08:30

Emerging Trends in Senior Living

You're invited to an insightful session with Steve Gurney as he explores the latest trends and innovative concepts shaping the future of senior living.

Join us to gain valuable insights into the key developments that industry professionals need to be aware of and learn how these trends could influence the senior living landscape.

Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and enhance your expertise in the field.

Our Speaker

Steve Gurney is the founder of the Positive Aging Community, a platform dedicated to fostering connections and sharing knowledge within the aging and senior living sectors.

With over 35 years of experience in senior living, Steve is a recognized thought leader, discussion/podcast host, and speaker who brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity and insight to discussions on aging and longevity. He is passionate about empowering older adults, families, and professionals to navigate the challenges and opportunities of aging, and he continues to lead conversations that inspire innovation and positive change in the industry.

 
 
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Overview of the Northern VA Ombudsman Program
Aug
7
8:30 AM08:30

Overview of the Northern VA Ombudsman Program

You're invited to an informative session on the Northern Virginia Ombudsman Program for LSIN's August Networking Meeting!

Join us to gain a comprehensive overview of this vital program, which advocates for the rights and well-being of residents in long-term care facilities.

Learn how the Ombudsman Program works to resolve complaints, ensure quality care, and provide essential support to seniors and their families.

This event is perfect for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in enhancing the quality of life for our elderly community.

Don't miss this opportunity to understand how the Ombudsman Program makes a difference and how you can get involved.

Our Speakers

Camden Doran has been working with older adults for over 24 years. In 2017, Camden joined the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NVLTCOP) as a staff Ombudsman, and during her tenure in the NVLTCOP she has developed intricate knowledge of policy and procedure and has built additional leadership skills through management of the volunteer program and program staff.

Prior to joining the NVLTCOP, Camden worked with older adults in the community providing community-based service referrals, home-based care services, and preadmission screenings for individuals seeking long-term care services either at home or in long-term care facilities.

Camden has an MS in Administration of Human Services and is a Certified Volunteer Administrator.

 

Donna Lee has been a staff ombudsman with the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NVLTCOP) for seven years.

Donna advocates for residents’ rights, assists in resolving residents’ complaints, and provides guidance on long-term care matters.

Before to joining NVLTCOP, Donna was a part of the Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resources unit providing intake services for Fairfax County’s Department of Family Services, Adult & Aging Division, and has also worked with older adults at Fairfax County’s Herndon Senior Center.

Donna has a master’s in social work.

 
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Alzheimer's Food Truck Fundraiser
Jul
24
12:00 PM12:00

Alzheimer's Food Truck Fundraiser

Join us for the Alzheimer's Food Truck Fundraiser!

Capital Caring Health and Morningside House of Leesburg are teaming up to host this delicious event featuring a 50/50 raffle. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association.

Don't miss out on great food and a chance to support a worthy cause!

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Acknowledging the Past: Understanding Trauma Informed Care and Applications for LGBTQ+ Older Adults
May
8
9:00 AM09:00

Acknowledging the Past: Understanding Trauma Informed Care and Applications for LGBTQ+ Older Adults

Join us for an insightful talk on 'Acknowledging the Past: Understanding Trauma-Informed Care and Applications for LGBTQ+ Older Adults.'

Discover the importance of recognizing past traumas and implementing tailored care strategies for LGBTQ+ seniors. Whether you're seeking to deepen your knowledge as a caregiver, healthcare professional, or ally, this event provides a valuable platform for learning and growth.

Don't miss out – reserve your seat today!

OUR SPEAKER

Karen Mullen McPhail, BSN, MSN, RN, LALFA, CCM, CDP, CCTC is the Chief Executive Officer of Eldementals LLC.

She is a professional care manager with over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry.  She has been working since 2001 as a private Healthcare Consultant, Care Advisor, and Care Manager in the DC Metro area. Her practice specializes in managing complex care needs and providing concierge-style care management for private clients.  

As a care manager and an aging life care professional, she has been educated in the various fields of human services including: case management, psychology and mental health, medical / surgical, oncology, transplant, critical care nursing, pediatrics, and geriatrics.  

Her organization supports multi state care management for all ages, with Ms. McPhail’s specialty areas being challenging dementia’s, movement disorders, geriatrics, complex care and advocacy, conflict resolution, and mediation support for older adults and vulnerable populations. 

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Muffin Marketing and More: Strategies, Barriers and Creative Solutions
May
1
8:30 AM08:30

Muffin Marketing and More: Strategies, Barriers and Creative Solutions

Join us for an engaging panel discussion on sales and marketing strategies at our upcoming event: 'Muffin Marketing and More: Strategies, Barriers, and Creative Solutions.'

Gain valuable insights from our LSIN Board Members as they share their expertise and experiences navigating the ever-evolving landscape of sales and marketing.

This event promises to offer practical advice, innovative solutions, and actionable tips to help you excel in your marketing efforts. Don't miss this opportunity to network with fellow professionals and elevate your marketing game.

We look forward to seeing you at Hessler Heights Gracious Living!

Our Panelists

Board President-Elect: Andy Riley, Comfort Keepers, Senior Home Care Specialist

Andy is a results-driven management professional with 10+ years of experience seeking a challenging position in government project management to leverage his extensive leadership, project planning, and customer service experience.

 
 

Board Member: Brady Marsten, Ashleigh at Lansdowne, Senior Director of Sales & Community Relations

Brady is a native of Northern Virginia and moved to Florida to attend Florida State University, majoring in Hospitality Management. During his time in Florida, he rose to management with Hitlon & Marriott Hotels. Brady's transition from Hitlon to assisted living has been amazing process for him professionally. Brady has been with Retirement Unlimited in a leadership role sine late 2020.

 
 

Board Member: Lisa Householder, Care Connect Nova, LLC, Founder/CEO

Throughout the past three decades, Lisa has dedicated her career to providing compassionate and reliable care for seniors. Her journey began with the personal experience of managing the care for her elderly father and aunt, which created a passion that would shape her professional success. From establishing a non-medical in-home care agency in Central Pennsylvania to excelling as a Client Care Director in Northern Virginia, Lisa's unwavering commitment to senior care has never wavered.

In 2022, Lisa and her wife and business partner, Sheri Householder, founded Care Connect Nova, a company that offers exemplary companion concierge services for seniors. Together, they are forging impactful partnerships to ensure that their clients and their families navigate the complexities of aging with grace and support.

Lisa's dedication and entrepreneurial spirit have made a positive impact on the lives of countless seniors and their families.

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Geriatric Care Management Forum: Q&A with three compassionate providers
Mar
6
8:30 AM08:30

Geriatric Care Management Forum: Q&A with three compassionate providers

Join us on March 6 for an insightful Geriatric Care Management Forum featuring a Q&A session with three compassionate providers.

Gain valuable insights into effective care strategies tailored for the unique needs of our aging community.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore crucial topics in geriatric care. Your questions and participation are welcomed!

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Estate Planning Fails of the Rich and Famous
Jan
3
8:30 AM08:30

Estate Planning Fails of the Rich and Famous

  • 19540 Sandridge Way, Leesburg, VA 20176 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Ever wonder what happens to celebrity fortunes when they die?

Many stars seen at red carpet awards ceremonies have no estate plan whatsoever or, even worse, they have one that is incomplete.

Their problems could also be yours. Estate planning sounds as if it is for the wealthy when, in fact, it applies to everyone, at every adult age.

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Overview of Elder Financial Abuse Today with John Schwartz
Nov
1
8:30 AM08:30

Overview of Elder Financial Abuse Today with John Schwartz

  • 19540 Sandridge Way, Leesburg, VA 20176 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
 

The event will be held at Hessler Heights Gracious Retirement Living in Leesburg, VA.

We’d love to see you there! But don’t worry, if you can’t make it, you can always register on Zoom.

 

About Our Speaker

John has over three decades of service to his country. John graduated from West Point in 1986 and served as a Field Artillery officer until 1995.

John attained the rank of Captain and he also graduated from the Air Assault, Airborne, and Ranger courses. After serving in the Army for nine years, John then joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and served as a Special Agent and Supervisory Special Agent for 24 years, from 1996 to 2021.

Upon retirement from the FBI, John founded the Center For Combating Elder Financial Abuse, a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

The mission of the Center is the following: Lead the way in protecting the elderly and their families from predators who commit elder financial abuse. John is very excited to serve our nation’s 56 million elders.

Website: https://endefa.org

Email: jrschwartz86@gmail.com

Facebook: Center For Combating Elder Financial Abuse

Cell phone: 703-203-7761

See you all at Hessler Heights, or on Zoom!

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Living Well With Parkinson’s with Dr. Abigail Lawler
Sep
6
8:30 AM08:30

Living Well With Parkinson’s with Dr. Abigail Lawler

  • 19540 Sandridge Way, Leesburg, VA 20176 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
 

The event will be held at Hessler Heights Gracious Retirement Living in Leesburg, VA.

We’d love to see you there! But don’t worry, if you can’t make it, you can always register on Zoom.

 

About Our Speaker

Dr. Abigail Lawler is a movement disorders specialist with the Inova Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center. She is fellowship-trained in movement and memory disorders at Georgetown University and specializes in offering a wide variety of treatment options beyond traditional medical management for Parkinson’s Disease.

Learn more about Dr. Abigail Lawler here: https://www.inova.org/doctors/abigail-c-lawler-md

See you all at Hessler Heights, or on Zoom!

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