"I think what people with Parkinson’s also realize they need is that community. Parkinson’s is a long-term diagnosis... they need peer support. And so being able to tune in and lock into a community that understands what they’re going through physically, emotionally, and medically is really important and something that we try and facilitate." ` Celeste Harris, LMSWTitle: Bridging Care and Community: A Social Worker’s Role at HAPSWelcome to another episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood! In today’s conversation, Kim sits down with Celeste Harris from the Houston Area Parkinson’s Society. Together, they dive into the vital topic of “Bridging Care and Community: A Social Worker’s Role.” Celeste shares how her organization goes beyond medical care to provide education, exercise, enrichment, home visits, and family consultations for clients living with Parkinson’s disease. Listeners will discover the biggest challenges faced by those with Parkinson’s, the importance of community support, and how a personalized approach to home wellness and safety can make a real difference. Plus, Celeste and Kim discuss practical resources, success stories, and meaningful advice for families and caregivers navigating a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Whether you or a loved one is impacted by Parkinson’s—or you simply want to be inspired by stories of compassion and community—this episode is for you.How to Contact Celeste713.313.1706, harris@haps.orgSocials: haps.org, FB: https://www.facebook.com/houstonareaparkinsonsociety, Instagram: @houstonareaparkinsonsociety, Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/hapsonlineBio:Celeste Harris, LMSW, is Director of Social Services withthe Houston Area Parkinson Society. After graduating from the University of St. Thomas, she completed her Master of Social Work from the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. With a focus on healthcare and older adults, Celeste first worked with HAPS as a graduate intern and then joined the HAPS team as full-time staff in 2006. Celeste works directly with clients as a case manager and support group facilitator, currently running 12 HAPS support groups both for individuals with Parkinson’s and caregivers, as well as coordinating enrichment programs like the HAPS Book Club, Women and PD group, and Common Grounds. She plays an active role in program and educational content development and frequently speaks at community outreach events. Additionally, Celeste is well-known in the Parkinson’s advocacy community, working with various organizations, including CurePSP, the Parkinson Foundation, and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, on advocacy efforts. Along with her husband, two sons, and cat, Celeste is proud to call Houston her home.______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880