The Optimism Awards honor individuals who embody APDA’s tagline, “Strength in optimism. Hope in progress.” by making a meaningful impact on the Parkinson’s community through support, education, wellness, and/or research. These awards celebrate extraordinary people who positively influence the lives of those impacted by Parkinson’s, demonstrating optimism through their contributions, while offering inspiration and hope for all that can be accomplished.
CONGRATULATIONS to the 2026 Optimism Award Winners!
Nate Coomer, Service Provider
Nate Coomer is the visionary behind The Parkinson’s Fitness Project (TPFP)—founding a mission-driven practice built solely around the unique needs of people living with Parkinson’s. Under his leadership, TPFP has become a lifeline for individuals and families seeking expert care that blends evidence-based therapy with encouragement, accountability, and community. From first assessment to follow-up, his care model centers the whole person and the realities of day-to-day life with PD.
Nate’s impact reaches beyond the clinic through educational outreach for families and training for other therapists, expanding Parkinson’s-specific expertise across our region. His programs target gait, balance, strength, and cognition while staying practical, motivating, and achievable.
The results are felt in bodies and in hearts. As one family shared, “From the moment you walk in the door, you are treated with total acceptance, no matter what your abilities or limitations are.” Another notes, “The positive experience my husband gets from his sessions at TPFP makes a huge impact not only on his physical ability, but also on his mood and his determination to keep active and stay ahead of the disease.”
This is “strength in optimism, hope in progress” made real through hands-on care that leads to measurable gains and helps people reclaim confidence, capability, and purpose.
On behalf of APDA Northwest, we are grateful for Nate’s tireless commitment to keeping our Parkinson’s community active, informed, and empowered—and honored to recognize him as this year’s Optimism Award – Service Provider recipient.
Anne Tiernan, Community Member
Anne is a joyful force within the APDA Northwest community. Soon after her diagnosis, she formed Team Tiernan for the annual Optimism Walk—starting with four friends and growing to more than 50 participants. Year after year, her team rallies neighbors, colleagues, and loved ones, often earning “largest team” honors and raising vital funds for services and research.
Anne also stitches her passion into purpose—literally. She has designed and donated handcrafted quilts for the Magic of Hope Gala auction, investing countless hours to create a one-of-a-kind piece that uplifts bidding and spirits alike. She openly shares her story to raise awareness, believing that today’s generosity fuels tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
She embodies “strength in optimism, hope in progress.” Even on difficult “off” days, Anne chooses connection over complaint, offering encouragement to others and refusing pity. Her conviction to tackle this disease shows up in action: she participates in numerous research and lifestyle studies, as well as APDA wellness classes to help manage her symptoms.
After navigating DBS with courage Anne now mentors others considering the procedure, turning fear into confidence for families like her own.
On behalf of APDA Northwest, we’re grateful for Anne’s tireless advocacy, community building, and example of resilient hope. We are honored to recognize her as this year’s Optimism Award – Community Member recipient.
PAST WINNERS:
2025: Diane Hutchins (Community Member), Heidi Bowen & Cheryl Remington (Service Provider)
2024: Deb Ivancovich (Community Member), Bill & Nadean Meyer (Service Provider)
2023: Brian Harris (Community Member)
2022: Kerry Howard (Community Member)
2021: Jeanne Kieffer (Community Member)
*Service Provider Award - new in 2024)
