Cougs for Parkinson’s
Cougs for Parkinson’s is a student-led initiative from the Washington State University College of Nursing. This website honors the legacy of Pam Dorway-Worley ’72 , a proud WSU alumna and advocate for compassionate care. The site supports patients, families, and caregivers affected by Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
Here, WSU nursing students contribute educational content, research highlights, and stories to connect Inland Northwest communities with the information and encouragement they deserve.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to empower patients, families, and future healthcare providers with accessible, student-created content about Parkinson’s disease. Rooted in compassion and community, this project reflects the legacy of Pam Dorway-Worley and the Washington State University College of Nursing’s commitment to improving lives through education and care.
About Parkinson’s
Explore the basics of Parkinson’s disease, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and current research.
Resources
Find guidance, local resources, and support tailored to those caring for someone with Parkinson’s.
Meet the Team
Jessi Macrae
My name is Jessi and I am a current WSU nursing student. I’m passionate about Parkinson’s research because I believe in the power of science to change lives. Seeing how this disease affects not only individuals but also their families has fuled my committment to finding better treatments, and ultimately a cure. I’m inspired by the resilience of those living with Parkinson’s and motivated by the potential to make a real impact through research, whether it’s uncovering new biomarkers, improving early detection, or developing more effective therapies.
Olivia Lofstedt
My name is Olivia Lofstedt and I am a current nursing student at Washington State University. I chose to research Parkinson’s disease for my research thesis because it is effecting millions of people and there is so much more research to be done on its progression, management, and its impact on patients and families. For example, my uncle has watched his mom battle through this neurodegenerative disorder for many years and has continued to watch her decline. As a future nurse, I want to be as informed as possible about Parkinson’s disease to care for these individuals living with this disorder. I know that there is not only physical side effects to the body but also such a emotional toll on the patients and the caregivers. My role within this collaborative research will be to find ways to improve the quality of life through physical activity and mobility, which I believe will help strengthen emotion and mental well being.
Kiera Morley
My name is Kiera and I am passionate about Parkinson’s disease because my grandfather passed away from complications related to Parkinson’s disease. He struggled with the condition for a very long time, and relied on my grandmother to provide all his care. My grandmother provided full time care for him and my uncle with down syndrome at the same time. Being a full time caregiver to multiple people with no pay was very difficult, and I want to create research on how to help people in similar situations as my grandma. I am a current nursing student at WSU, hoping to pursue my passion in helping others live life to their best ability.
Staff and Faculty
A student-led project from the WSU College of Nursing honoring the legacy of Pam Dorway-Worley ’72, CougsForParkinsons.org offers resources, research, and regional guidance for those affected by Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
©2025 WSU College of Nursing