What is the Neptune Project
The Neptune Project is named for a 60-foot aluminum sloop that participated in the 2023/2024 Ocean Globe Race (OGR) whose crew included Bertrand Delhom from France, a lifelong sailor who has Parkinson's disease. The boat was retrofitted to accommodate Bertrand’s mobility needs. After completion of the OGR, Bertrand’s Parkinson’s symptoms were significantly alleviated and his attitude heightened. Despite the challenges of Bertrand's disease, he completed the full circumnavigation, proving that limitations are often set by perception rather than reality. His journey is an inspiration to know that adventure and achievement do not end with a Parkinson's diagnosis.
Studies show that sailing can have a significant benefit to people with Parkinson’s. Wanting to share his message of hope and sailing with others with the disease, the Neptune Project concept was born by Amy Bridge and a plethora of dedicated Bay area sailors and PD advocates.
The Neptune is now sailing to represent support for the worldwide Parkinson’s community and to raise funds for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, the largest non-profit Parkinson’s Research organization, and for local non-profit Parkinson’s service providers. The boat is in service to bring a presence to local and global racing, attention to the disease, the need for a cure and services, and to bring the sport of sailing to the Parkinson’s community. Programs and Regattas will be replicated and perpetuated worldwide for this purpose.
Listen to "The Neptune Project for Parkinson's: Talking with Skipper Tan Raffray, Bertrand Delhom and Amy Bridge" on the San Francisco Experience Podcast here.
Parkinson's Regatta
The Inaugural Sailing 4 Parkinson's Regatta represents collaboration between the Neptune Project, the Parkinson Association of Northern California, the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, and the Corinthian Yacht Club located in Tiburon, California.
Approximately thirty sailing clubs and associations from around the San Francisco Bay area are anticipated to join in the event which includes a sailing race, gala, and post-event celebration. Proceeds from the Regatta will benefit the non-profit organizations mentioned above. Opportunities are available for boats, crew, volunteers, sponsors, and fundraisers to participate.
The "Fête de la Baie" Gala will be hosted the evening before at the world-class Corinthian Yacht Club and a dockside celebratory awards reception follows the race. We look forward to a fun weekend of raising awareness and funds that make a difference in the lives of Parkinson's heroes and their families.
How Can I Get Involved?
Register a boat for the race, be a sponsor, attend the Gala, participate as a spectator, and raise funds for the selected charities. When the Sailing with Parkinson's program is launched, people with Parkinson's can experience sailing and we need captains willing to help with this program. Email here with questions or to be added to our informational distribution list.
What is Next?
This initiative is intended to grow across the globe to help those with the disease and to bring funds needed to cure it. Events are in the planning stages on the East and West Coasts of the US and in Europe. The Neptune Project's goal is to build support for Parkinson's that is international, inclusive, and intentional and with a desire to connect and help where help is needed.
The Neptune Project is not just about sailing—it is about challenging perceptions, breaking barriers, and proving that Parkinson’s does not define a person’s potential. We invite you to join us!
Join us in navigating hope. Support Sailing 4 Parkinson's today!
Why Parkinson's disease and the Sailing 4 Parkinson's Regatta?
More than 10 million people worldwide live with Parkinson’s disease. That number is estimated to double by 2050. It is the fastest growing neurodegenerative disease in the world and now the 13th lead cause of death in the United States. Most know someone who has been affected by this multi-symptom and difficult disease that affects both motor and non-motor skills. Currently there is no cure.
Exercise is proven as one of the best therapies to slow and manage the disease. Sailing is a highly therapeutic activity for both physical and emotional wellness. The healing power of water is no longer hypothetical, and the experience of sailing takes one’s mind and body to another realm. The motion of the sea and the rhythm of the wind engage both the body and the brain in uniquely beneficial ways. Studies show the positive impact of sailing for those affected by the disease and a ripple effect on families and community members who have the opportunity to experience sailing as well.
Funds raised for the Regatta and Sailing 4 Parkinson's effort directly benefit Parkinson's research and advocacy, NorCal patient services, and future sailing with Parkinson's programs. Every donation fuels this mission, allowing Neptune to continue its journey, inspire more lives, and push toward a future with better outlook for those with the disease.
Our Non-Profit Beneficiaries
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF)
MJFF is the largest non-profit fundraiser for Parkinson’s Disease Research in the world. It exists for one reason; to accelerate the next generation of Parkinson’s disease (PD) treatments and find a cure. This means spearheading medical and environmental solutions and doing whatever it takes to drive faster knowledge-based therapies for the benefit of every life touched by PD. Visit the Michael J Fox organization for additional information.
Parkinson Association of Northern California (PANC)
PANC is an independent Parkinson’s organization dedicated to serving the local Northern California community. The organization is known for its impactful work in supporting and improving the lives of those living with PD, their care partners, and family members. PANC is a boots-on-the ground organization which facilitates 48 support groups, hosts/develops educational programs and the largest PD conference on the West Coast, funds respite grants for care givers, and much more. Visit panctoday.org for additional information.