Chairman And Staff

Parkinson Research Foundation

Lawrence Hoffheimer, Chairman and Founder

Mr. Hoffheimer was a federal prosecutor with the United States Department of Justice and a practicing healthcare attorney in Washington, D.C. for 33 years. During the course of his career, he represented numerous voluntary health agencies and healthcare professionals. Notably, Mr. Hoffheimer spearheaded the advocacy effort resulting in the Congressional Resolution and Presidential Proclamation declaring the 1990s as “The Decade of the Brain.” He also founded the National Foundation for Brain Research which provided enhanced visibility for neurological disorders. Recognized for his expertise, Mr. Hoffheimer was appointed Washington counsel for the National Parkinson Foundation, where he played a pivotal role in lobbying for Morris K. Udall Bill, securing $100 million for Parkinson’s disease research. In addition, to his advocacy work, Mr. Hoffheimer served as President of the Parkinson Foundation for the National Capital Area, overseeing fundraising efforts that generated over $2 million for medical research. In 2006, he relocated to Sarasota and established the Parkinson Research Foundation. Mr. Hoffheimer continues his lifelong commitment to the Parkinson community where he continues to serve as Chairman, steadfast in his dedication to advancing Parkinson’s research and support initiatives.

Linda Patterson, Chief Financial Officer

Linda is a graduate of the University of South Florida and has been a Certified Public Accountant for over 30 years. She relocated from Pittsburgh to Sarasota in 1979 and quickly embraced the beautiful beaches and warm weather.

Linda is deeply committed to the community, actively volunteering and providing services to numerous non-profit organizations, including schools. As a member of the AICPA with a specialized interest in the Not-for-Profit sector, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role.

She has served as the accountant for the Parkinson Research Foundation since 2008. In her capacity as Chief Financial Officer, Linda oversees the Parkinson Research Foundation's financial operations, ensuring its financial health and supporting its long-term goals and sustainability.

Lynne Henry, Donor Relations Director

Lynne holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Colorado, Boulder. She brings over 30 years of financial and business management experience to the foundation.

Currently serving as Donor Relations Director at the Parkinson Research Foundation, Lynne oversees the Parkinson Research Foundation Major Donor Program and is responsible for gift processing, donor relations and developing and strengthening relationships with supporters.

Lynne’s enthusiasm and strong interpersonal skills contribute to the foundation’s overall mission to play a positive role in the lives of Parkinson patients, caregivers and the community at large.

Andrea M. Smith, Educational Services Director

Andrea serves as the Educational Services Director at the Parkinson Research Foundation (PRF). Previously, she was the Director of the Centers of Excellence at the Macular Degeneration Association. At PRF, Andrea ensures that educational brochures, the website, social media channels, and donor platforms are always up to date, while also coordinating community outreach to provide timely news and resources for individuals affected by Parkinson’s and their families.

She brings strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep passion for helping others, making her an essential member of the Parkinson Research Foundation team. In her spare time, Andrea enjoys spending time with family and friends, gardening, and reading.