POP ADVISORS GROUP
The POP Advisors Group is dedicated to those of you who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. We at Power Over Parkinson’s personally understand the issues that accompany being newly diagnosed. Our Founder, Gary Rogliano has Parkinson’s Disease and started the Foundation to improve the current quality of life for those with the disease. Per our mission statement, POP is dedicated to supporting those with Parkinson’s through financial, physical activity, and socialization avenues.
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Because we understand all the issues, concerns, and questions you may have as a person newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, we are able to help, listen and guide you through all the processes and resources that are available to those with the disease.
In addition to our many relationships with service providers helpful to those with Parkinson’s Disease, we also have several POP Advisors who volunteer to spend time with those who are newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s. These Advisors, who also have Parkinson’s Disease, are dedicated individuals who will guide you to the resources that exist to improve your current quality of life and create a socialization network that is intact for years to come. They have experienced the journey you are going through, so they understand and appreciate your personal issues. While we are not medical personnel and cannot dispense medical advice, we are here to help both you and your care partners.
As always, in keeping with POP’s tradition, there is no obligation or cost to you or your care partner. If you have any questions about this program, please feel free to contact us at Power Over Parkinson’s.
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Below is our list of talented Advisors with a contact form to follow.
Please fill out the form below with your contact data and we will respond to you shortly.
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Note: While this service is focused on the newly diagnosed and the challenges that accompany the initial stages of the disease, POP strives to support those with PD at every stage of their journey. Because of this, if you are not newly diagnosed but are in need of assistance, please reach out to us.
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GARY GRIFFITHS
I grew up in Pasadena, Maryland and at 18 I joined the Navy and served from 1986 to 1990. I met my wife while she attended Longwood College and later attended VCU and graduated as a Physical Therapist. After graduation, we decided to stay in the Richmond area. Cathy and I have been married for 29 years and we have two sons, Ryan and Colin.
I’m a retired fire Lieutenant and paramedic from Chesterfield Fire and EMS. I retired after 26 years of service to the citizens of Chesterfield County. During my tenure, I was a member of our peer support team over 10 years. During that time, I provided support to fire service personnel who experienced traumatic events as fire and EMS providers.
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012 at the age of 44. Since my diagnosis and retirement, it has been my passion to help those with Parkinson’s. I want to be an advocate and friend to those affected by Parkinson’s during their journey and hopefully help make a difference.
RAY BIRK
Originally from the Chicago area, I went to college in Wisconsin, then lived in Minnesota and Iowa before moving to Richmond, Va in 1982. Dee and I have two adult daughters, Jessica and Brady. We have been married for 54 years.
I was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age of 66 in 2013, the same year that I retired. Up until that time I managed a manufacturing plant with 130 employees. I was the General Manager and was responsible for all areas including sales, accounting, engineering, procurement, manufacturing, etc. My days were fast paced and hectic.
My life today is quite different. While I now enjoy exercise, it was not anything I did before PD. Parkinson’s has been a great teacher for me. Mostly what I have learned is that it really is a good idea to stop and smell the roses, that old friends are the best friends and the small things in life matter the most… especially when it comes to people. I have always been a people person, but now I guess, I more appreciate the value of other people. “Thank you” is a phrase I use most often.
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While Parkinson’s is a challenging in many ways, I have been comforted by the many positive results. If it weren’t for PD I would not be this physically fit, I would not have met such wonderful people, I would not have had so many individuals give a hand when I needed it.. to cross a street, to walk down a narrow aisle, to carry my food/plate or to have some young adults give up a seat for me in a crowded city bus. I am a lucky guy and the world is full of helpful caring people.
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I look forward to sharing my experiences, feelings and concerns with those who are new to PD.
JOE D'ORAZIO
Joe D’Orazio’s career had spanned over 32 years in the Electrical Utility Industry. The initial 10 years of Joe’s career was dedicated to working for a manufacturer (Cooper Power Systems) of utility products, where he held various Product Marketing and Field Sales positions. The latter 20 years of his career had been devoted to the distribution business for electric utilities. Joe held various positions of increasing responsibility during this time including Account Manager, Branch Manager, District Sales Manager, Regional Sales Manager, Regional Vice President, Vice President Sales and Operations and Alliance Manager. Joe worked part-time for a manufacturer representative agency called Southern Partners as VP of Sales for the Mid-Atlantic territory. He officially retired in August of 2018.
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Born and raised in the Pittsburgh PA area. Moved to Virginia in 1996. Married to Karen for 33 plus years and the father of three (Joey 27, Gina 25, and Robbie 21). An avid sports fan who endears all Pittsburgh sports teams).
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Diagnosed with MS in February 2015 and then diagnosed with Parkinson’s in June of 2018. Stays active through Rock Steady Boxing, POP events, walking and my favorite past time golf.
KEN KONOPKY
I’m originally from Providence, R.I. After finishing college my wife & I moved throughout New England, as I began my retail management career. After 10 years in this career, we both needed a change. We moved to Virginia 20 years ago to be near family, friends & to start new careers. Once settled, we purchased a home in Midlothian. We have a daughter, a recent graduate from VCU & our dog (Abbey). I would find my career in supply chain management & financial services. While my wife would be employed in banking & insurance.
I was diagnosed at 53 with Parkinson’s. I was surprised as I was always at the gym, ate correctly & avoided any medical challenges. After a short period of discovery thru self-reflection, Parkinson’s education, engaging with people with Parkinson’s & dialoguing with medical professionals, I decided this was not a time to “give up”, but to move forward with life’s next chapter. Since my diagnoses, I’ve left my job & had to retire. Today, I remain active both physically & mentally. I am a firm believer that physical & mental exercise will slow the progression of Parkinson’s.