Understanding Micrographia and Parkinson's: An Upcoming Virtual Talk That Could Change the Way You Write

​Have you or a loved one with Parkinson’s disease noticed that your handwriting is getting smaller or more cramped over time? This subtle but significant change is called Micrographia, and it’s a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease that can often be frustrating and confusing. A new virtual PD Talk on July 6, 2025, can help you understand and alleviate these symptoms.

To shed light on this important topic, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is hosting a special Zoom presentation titled “Intro to Micrographia” on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. The session will be led by Alicia Artz and Jen Hedgepeth, Physical Therapist Assistants and co-owners of Fite For Your Write, a program focused on helping individuals with Parkinson’s reclaim their confidence and clarity through writing.
This informative session is free, but RSVPs are required by Monday, July 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
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​What Is Micrographia?
Micrographia is a neurological symptom often associated with Parkinson’s disease, characterized by abnormally small, cramped handwriting. Many individuals find that their writing starts out normal-sized but quickly becomes tiny and illegible as they continue. This can be frustrating—not only because it makes communication harder, but also because it’s a visible reminder of Parkinson’s progression.
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While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, Micrographia is believed to stem from the same motor symptoms that affect walking, balance, and speech in Parkinson’s disease. The good news? There are strategies to help improve handwriting, and that’s where Alicia and Jen come in.

​Meet the Presenters
Alicia Artz and Jen Hedgepeth are passionate about empowering people with Parkinson’s through their specialized handwriting and motor skills program, Fite For Your Write. With backgrounds in physical therapy, they understand the movement challenges Parkinson’s creates. Their mission is to show people how a targeted, consistent handwriting practice can help retrain the brain and improve both writing and overall hand coordination.

During the “Intro to Micrographia” session, Alicia and Jen will share:

• What Micrographia is and why it happens
• Simple tools and techniques to address handwriting changes
• How writing exercises can help reconnect the brain and body
• Stories of real progress from participants in their program

Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson’s for years, this session is designed to educate, encourage, and offer actionable steps to improve a vital part of daily life.

How to Join
This is a virtual event, so you can attend from the comfort of your own home. Just be sure to RSVP by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, July 7 to receive the Zoom link.
To RSVP, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how something as simple as handwriting can become a powerful tool for reconnecting with your abilities—and yourself. Whether you're living with Parkinson’s or supporting someone who is, “Intro to Micrographia” is a valuable step toward understanding and overcoming one of Parkinson’s lesser-known, yet impactful, challenges.

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