THE ARTS DISTRICT
In the heart of our journey with Parkinson’s, creativity became both expression and a quiet refuge. The Arts District brings together the stories, symbols, and works that reflect our path—from the meaning behind the elephant to the steady strength captured on film and canvas.
Our father has always been a creative individual. As a surgeon he relied on his technical skills and natural dexterity to not only perform complicated procedures, but also to provide a better quality of life for those who turned to him. He made people want to smile again. It was not lost on us that he used these same skills to make us smile. He took up painting as a way to calm his mind and take a break from work. His colorful images and whimsical artwork appeared on everything from our wooden camp trunks to stretched canvas paintings. He thoroughly enjoyed it, and we were so proud to show off his “masterpieces.”
Following Dad’s Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2017, we suggested he return to the painting that he loved so much. But with the constant movement of his tremors and dyskinesia, he found it challenging. Utilizing tape to lay out abstract designs, he was able to fill in the shapes to achieve the clean lines that seemed impossible with his Parkinson’s symptoms. These paintings became a wonderfully therapeutic outlet, especially for a retired surgeon who was used to having control over his hands. We all began requesting original Papa paintings. His grandchildren even scheduled time with him so they could paint together.
These are the paintings that served as the inspiration for our Papa’s Path™ logo.
We continue to walk alongside Papa on this new path, admiring the unique and meaningful ways he’s embraced life with Parkinson’s.
At Papa’s Path, the elephant is more than a meaningful mark—it’s a powerful symbol of resilience, strength, and the importance of walking together. Living with Parkinson’s means facing daily challenges that can often feel overwhelming, but elephants remind us of the power of persistence. They move with intention, adapting to obstacles—just as those managing Parkinson’s do every day. Most importantly, elephants never walk alone. They rely on their circle for support, much like our community of patients, caregivers, doctors, and loved ones who walk side by side through this journey.
Our elephant carries deep significance—it was designed by our very own “Papa,” a dedicated oral surgeon whose life has been marked by compassion and purpose. Despite his Parkinson’s diagnosis, he refused to let it define him. Instead, he embraced painting as a way to manage his symptoms, channeling his resilience into creating beautiful works of art. His story reflects the very heart of our mission: finding new paths forward, fostering creativity, and continuing to move deliberately—no matter the challenges ahead.
At Papa’s Path, every step we take leads to greater awareness, deeper understanding, and renewed hope, reminding us that we are always surrounded by those who care. Like the mighty elephant, we walk together—stronger as a herd.
At Papa’s Path, the elephant is more than a meaningful mark—it’s a powerful symbol of resilience, strength, and the importance of walking together. Living with Parkinson’s means facing daily challenges that can often feel overwhelming, but elephants remind us of the power of persistence. They move with intention, adapting to obstacles—just as those managing Parkinson’s do every day. Most importantly, elephants never walk alone. They rely on their circle for support, much like our community of patients, caregivers, doctors, and loved ones who walk side by side through this journey.
At Papa’s Path, the elephant is more than a meaningful mark—it’s a powerful symbol of resilience, strength, and the importance of walking together. Living with Parkinson’s means facing daily challenges that can often feel overwhelming, but elephants remind us of the power of persistence. They move with intention, adapting to obstacles—just as those managing Parkinson’s do every day. Most importantly, elephants never walk alone. They rely on their circle for support, much like our community of patients, caregivers, doctors, and loved ones who walk side by side through this journey.
Our elephant carries deep significance—it was designed by our very own “Papa,” a dedicated oral surgeon whose life has been marked by compassion and purpose. Despite his Parkinson’s diagnosis, he refused to let it define him. Instead, he embraced painting as a way to manage his symptoms, channeling his resilience into creating beautiful works of art. His story reflects the very heart of our mission: finding new paths forward, fostering creativity, and continuing to move deliberately—no matter the challenges ahead.
At Papa’s Path, every step we take leads to greater awareness, deeper understanding, and renewed hope, reminding us that we are always surrounded by those who care. Like the mighty elephant, we walk together—stronger as a herd.
“Steady” tells the story of a former boxer living with Parkinson’s disease. Exercise, including boxing, is often prescribed by neurologists for patients suffering from Parkinson’s. Physical activity helps slow the disease’s progression. The film is inspired in part by Joey Rogoff’s real-life grandfather, Dr. Charles Babbush. Papa’s Path was proud to support this meaningful project, offering valuable feedback and on-set consultation to authentically represent the daily experiences of individuals living with Parkinson’s.
Directed By: Joey Rogoff & Brian Yuran
Written By: Brian Yuran
© JoRo Productions In Association with Rosarx Productions
COLOR YOUR TOOLBOX.
SHARE YOUR ART.
Art connects, uplifts, and expresses what words sometimes can’t. Inspired by Papa’s elephant painting, this creative art project is included in your Steady Essentials Toolbox because your story – and your art – matter.
SHARE YOUR DESIGN.
We’ll feature your artwork on papaspath.org to celebrate the unique voices of our Parkinson’s community. Just snap a photo and send it to:
amy@papaspath.org or text: 440-376-3869
Please include:
Your name, contact info and a short note on how art supports or inspires you.
