About the Foundation

The Davis Phinney Foundation (DPF) has a single mission: To improve the lives of those living with Parkinson's disease. Based in Boulder, Colorado, the foundation was established in 2004 by cycling legend Davis Phinney, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 40. The DPF is focused on promoting and funding innovative and progressive research into the benefits of quality of life therapies on Parkinson's disease. The foundation also works to communicate the importance of integrating these therapies into everyday treatment plans. Finally, through various speaking engagements and symposia, the DPF team encourages those impacted by the disease to celebrate the daily victories in their lives.

Born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, Davis Phinney fell in love with cycling when he was 15 years old. It was 1975 and as Davis watched the racers competing in Colorado’s famed Red Zinger Classic, he knew that the world of cycling was where he wanted to be.

Despite the warning from a high school history teacher who told him he'd "never make it as a professional bike racer," Davis followed his heart...more

Davis Phinney, as founder and President, leads the foundation and all funding efforts. Patti Ketchner, our operations director, manages all Boulder based activities and finances. Amy Howard coordinates the Scientific Advisory Board, Kristie Henderson is the communications director, and Mary Rachel Shomaker is the office manager.

Renowned neurosurgeon, Dr. John Tew serves as Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board and our National Leadership Council is lead by prominent venture capitalist Jeff Garvey, and includes the likes of seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong.

Our unique research model
Advisory boards

Left: Davis Phinney, Right: Rick Tallman and John Tew

Davis PhinneyDavis and Friends at the SunflowerIV