My PD Story

This year, I’m running the Marine Corps Marathon as a Parkinson’s Champion, in memory of my dad. He lived with Parkinson’s disease before passing away in 2023.

Long before I became a run streaker, he was a “walk streaker”—committed to continuing his streak of daily walks, rain or shine, until his health no longer allowed it. His quiet strength and unwavering routine set a powerful example. He taught me to “walk the walk,” to keep the faith, and to always show up 100% for the people and values you hold dear.

One of the things that resonates with me is the role of exercise in managing Parkinson’s symptoms.  Research shows that just 2.5 hours of physical activity per week—when combined with medication—can significantly improve mobility, mood and overall quality of life. My dad lived that research before it had a name. Long before Parkinson’s truly took its toll, he found strength, clarity and dignity in his daily walks.

Running has become my way of processing loss, channeling love and carrying forward the lessons he left me. Every mile of training reminds me of the path he walked—both literally and figuratively.

Parkinson’s is more than tremors or stiffness. It’s a relentless, unpredictable disease that affects movement, mood, sleep, speech and so much more. The people living with it—and the caregivers who support them—deserve more answers, more resources, and more hope. The Parkinson’s Foundation is delivering on all three.

This marathon isn’t just about honoring my dad’s memory. It’s about supporting the millions of people still living with Parkinson’s and the families who walk beside them. That’s why I’ve chosen to fundraise for the Parkinson’s Foundation: because they work every day to improve care and advance research toward a cure.

My dad always showed up. I’ll do the same—one step at a time, for him and for everyone still traveling this road.

Run as a Parkinson’s Champion today! Help raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular endurance events.