Derek, left receives his Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business alumni award on April 16
This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, PWF is not only rallying to support people impacted by the fastest growing neurodegenerative disease in the world. We’re also highlighting the leader at the heart of our mission: Robert Derek Bandeen.
After learning he had Parkinson’s disease seven years ago, Derek set out to meet this life-changing news with his trademark resilience, determination, and intrepid problem-solving skills that informed his 30-year career in investment banking. Such resolve would be inspiring enough, but Derek wanted to turn his diagnosis into an opportunity to help others on the same journey he was facing. Together with his wife, Bonnie, they started their nonprofit, the Parkinson’s Wellness Foundation, and raised funds to open The Bandeen Center–New York City’s first dedicated space for holistic Parkinson’s care. Three months in, the center is already making a difference to New York’s PD community. Members and care partners alike consider it to be a home away from home, where they feel motivated to stay active and social in a safe and supportive environment. “Thank you for building this for us,” a visitor told Derek recently. But Derek doesn’t want the credit. “Bonnie and I had this dream, and none of this would be possible without the remarkable staff and generous donors who have worked alongside us,” he explains.
In recognition of his work filling a critical gap in Parkinson’s healthcare, Derek was recently presented with the Leader of Consequence Award at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, his alma mater. Given to an alum whose “exemplary accomplishments are matched by the significant positive social or environmental change they have created,” this honor is a testament to the values-driven work Derek has modeled throughout his professional and personal life.
And this weekend, when The Bandeen Center team participates in NYC’s Parkinson’s Unity Walk to support the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s research for a cure, Derek will be walking as a new member of the MJFF Patient Council, a core component of the foundation’s leadership that provides input and guidance to key stakeholders as they strive to find a Parkinson’s cure. For Derek, this appointment is yet another opportunity to collaborate with a talented team to support the larger PD community. Service and optimism may not be typical responses to Parkinson’s, but both come naturally to our Co-Founder.
“What an amazing adventure this is!” Derek marveled recently. Amazing, yes–just like him.
