CPWG started in 1994...
under a different name and different auspices. It was called the "Young Parkinson's Support Group", had no homebase, and had about a dozen members. It was started in collaboration with the APDA and Donna Diaz, in New Haven.

Significant was that it was statewide, published a newsletter, concentrated on issues of younger people, and considered action as part of its mandate.

It grew to about 60 in the two years it existed. The group was suspended in 1996 due to demands on the leader's time that were excessive.

In 2000 the CPWG started up with two co-leaders, one of whom was the originator in 1994. Its mandates remain close to the original ones.

At this time we are unaffiliated and have obtained tax-exempt status on our own. Our mailing list exceeds 300 with about 80 active members. We have received many grants from both national PD organizations (e.g. PDF, PDTrials) and pharmaceutical companies (e.g. Pfizer, Schwatz Pharma, Medtronix); have an active outreach program with information sessions being given around the state to newly diagnosed people, medical professionals and visiting nurse groups; and have organized and conducted statewide gatherings for the purpose of educating health care professionals and the public about PD.  We are also a caring group that provides internal and external support and understanding to those who join us as members.