Parkinson's Together University of Cincinnati

Mallika Desai is the founder and president of Parkinson's Together 501(c)3 as well as the UC Parkinson's Together Chapter. She started this organization with the multi-talented team because of a connection she formed with a retirement home resident while volunteering in high school. Watching the resident go through not only the immense pathological hurdles that Parkinson's disease brings upon any individual, but also the economic and social issues she and her family faced were heart-breaking but also something Mallika believes student and community support integrated in patient care can help with.

Minahil Haroon is a first-generation third year college student at the University of Cincinnati obtaining her Bachelor's of Science in Medical Sciences with a Minor in Public Health. Minahil always knew that she wanted to work in medicine, however as she grew her knowledge in the current healthcare system she developed a strive to advocate for healthcare literacy in underserved communities. When her high school mentor's mother passed away from Alzheimer's Disease, her passion to work with neurological disorders allowed her to find an opportunity to work with Parkinson's Together. Minahil also carries the organization's values and goals close to heart as she pursues to serve the Parkinson's community and spread awareness within the UC Campus and Greater Cincinnati area.

Meet Edward Gerstner, a second-year student at the University of Cincinnati majoring in Health Sciences. Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, his passion for health care was sparked by personal experiences with many healthcare professionals who guided him through the early years of his life with a severe milk allergy. Edward saw the immense impact caring healthcare professionals can have on patients and their families and knew that was a facet of life he wanted to join. For Edward, however; it's not all about textbooks and hospital visits. When he's not hitting the books or lending a helpful hand, you can find him outdoors, soaking up nature's goodness. He's a golf fanatic, always up for a round with friends, and he loves hitting the trails for a good hike. Whether he's sinking putts or climbing peaks, Edward finds inspiration and balance in the great outdoors, fueling his drive to make a difference in the world of healthcare.

Ikshitha is a Louisville native and third-year studying Medical Sciences at University of Cincinnati. Her interest in Parkinson's Together stems from her a family member with Parkinson's Disease. In her free time you can find her reading, making art, or with friends.

Afolakemi is originally from Indianapolis and is a third-year medical sciences major at the University of Cincinnati. She enjoys cafes, reading, and movies. Her interests in joining Parkinson's Together grew after taking a class where she was able to meet with members of the Cincinnati community who had neurodegenerative diseases. Throughout the semester she was able to connect with them and their care partners to learn more about their disease and participate in activities that help to alleviate their symptoms. This course sparked Kemi into wanting to educate others about Parkinson's as well as wanting to continue to work with those affected by it.

From Springboro, Ohio, Shawn Syed is a second year undergraduate at the University of Cincinnati with a major in Medical Science. Driven by a passion for learning and interest in medicine and community service, Shawn is always excited to branch out with opportunities and take part in different ventures. Growing up with a brother with a neurodegenerative condition, Shawn has always been interested in the likes of neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease and how people can help provide for patients through service, research, and other collaborative efforts