Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurological disorder, uses a dual system of visual identification—a designated color and a unique floral symbol—to promote awareness worldwide. These easily recognizable emblems help unify global communities, educate the public, and drive support for the estimated 10 million people living with the condition globally.
The Official Awareness Color
The primary awareness ribbon color associated with Parkinson’s disease is grey or silver. This choice of color is attributed to the neurological nature of the condition, symbolizing the brain and the complex realm of neurodegenerative disorders. Some suggest the grey color represents the “grey matter” of the brain, the area affected by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons.
The perception of the official color sometimes varies between grey and silver, depending on the specific advocacy group or region. While the ribbon color provides a quick, familiar form of visual identification, it can create confusion with the more widely known symbol of the red tulip. Many organizations use a combination of grey and the red from the tulip to encompass both the anatomical connection and the symbol of hope.
The Significance of the Red Tulip Symbol
The most distinctive and internationally adopted symbol for Parkinson’s awareness is the red tulip. This choice has a specific history rooted in the personal experience of J.W.S. Van der Wereld, a Dutch horticulturist who lived with Parkinson’s. In 1980, he cultivated a new hybrid tulip variety that was a striking red with a feathered white edge.
He named his creation the ‘Dr. James Parkinson’ tulip, honoring the English physician who first described the condition in his 1817 work, An Essay on the Shaking Palsy. The red tulip was officially adopted as the Worldwide Symbol of Parkinson’s Disease in 2005 at the 9th World Parkinson’s Disease Day Conference in Luxembourg.
The tulip symbolizes hope, new life, and the perseverance of those living with the disease. As an early spring bloom, the tulip pushes through the cold earth, reflecting the community’s resilience and strength. A stylized version of the symbol, designed by patient Karen Painter, features the leaves shaped like the letters ‘P’ and ‘D’ for Parkinson’s Disease. This symbol unifies global advocacy efforts, appearing on organizational logos and pins worn by supporters.
Promoting Awareness Through Global Campaigns
Awareness efforts for Parkinson’s disease are concentrated during April, designated as Parkinson’s Awareness Month globally. This month was chosen because April 11th marks the birthday of Dr. James Parkinson, commemorating his original description of the condition. The global movement uses the established color and symbol to raise public knowledge and funds throughout this period.
Campaigns utilize both the grey/silver color and the red tulip symbol to maximize visibility and impact. Fundraising events, such as walks and runs, encourage participants to wear grey or red apparel to visually represent their support. Prominent landmarks and buildings are often illuminated in grey or red lighting on World Parkinson’s Day. These activities, which include educational seminars and social media campaigns, aim to increase early symptom recognition and generate investment in research.