NEOMED faculty member Dr. Sara Whittingham appointed to federal Advisory Council on Parkinson’s Research, Care, and Services

Feb. 13, 2026

Sara Ann Whittingham, M.D., a clinical faculty member at Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) and Air Force veteran who is also living with Parkinson’s disease, has been appointed to the Advisory Council on Parkinson’s Research, Care, and Services, a federal body convened by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The appointment, made by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., is effective immediately and extends through Dec. 31, 2029, in accordance with federal appointment procedures.

The Advisory Council provides strategic guidance on national Parkinson’s initiatives, including shaping research priorities, strengthening care models and expanding services for individuals and families affected by the disease.

“I am honored to join this newly created Advisory Council and to help expand patient support services, drive public awareness and advance emerging therapies and care models,” said Dr. Whittingham.

As part of her role, Dr. Whittingham will receive briefings and coordination from Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., director of the National Institutes of Health.

Dr. Whittingham was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020 and has become a leading advocate for patient-centered research, education and awareness. She is the author of Oh Crap! It’s Parkinson’s: A Rebel’s Guide to Taking Back Control of Your Life and actively contributes her expertise to NEOMED’s Neurodegenerative Research Focus Area.

Her appointment underscores NEOMED’s growing national presence in neurodegenerative research and its commitment to improving the lives of individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.