Otterbein University is lighting Towers Hall blue for World Parkinson’s Day on April 11 in honor of alumnus Larry Gifford ’94, who was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s in August 2017 at age 45.

Gifford has become an outspoken advocate and expert for Parkinson’s patients and treatment. He created a world-renowned “When Life Gives You Parkinson’s” and co-founded PD Avengers, a Global Alliance to End Parkinson’s Disease, which raises awareness and donations to help find a cure for Parkinson’s.   

Gifford, who underwent deep brain stimulation surgery in late 2023 to combat many of the symptoms he lives with each day, also consults with the Michael J. Fox Foundation. 

For World Parkinson’s Day, the annual #SparktheNight campaign will light up buildings, bridges, and landmarks in blue across the globe to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease. Otterbein is joining in solidarity with the Parkinson’s community, lighting Towers Hall blue.  

For 2025, the #SparktheNight goal is to light up 11.8 million lights for the 11.8 million people living with Parkinson’s. Otterbein is proud to participate in support of Gifford and everyone in the Parkinson’s community.