My PD Story

2026 will be my second time running the Marine Corps Marathon as a Parkinson’s Champion, in memory of my dad. He lived with Parkinson’s disease (PD) before passing away in 2023, and not a day goes by that I don’t feel his influence guiding my steps.

I speak often of his love of his daily walks; I joke that long before I became a run streaker, he was a “walk streaker.”  Three miles a day, no matter the weather, until his health no longer allowed it. Those walks were steady and intentional, just like he was.

Through his consistency, he showed me what it means to show up 100% — for those you love, for the life you’re given. He truly “walked the walk” in so many ways, and I still learn from his example.

I’ve come to genuinely appreciate 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.

For me, running is a way to process loss and carry love forward; running for the Parkinson’s Foundation has become one way that I stay connected to my dad. It’s how I honor the lessons he left behind. Every mile of training reminds me of the path he walked, both literally and figuratively.

Parkinson’s is often described as tremors or stiffness, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a relentless, unpredictable disease that affects movement, mood, sleep, speech and so much more. It reshapes daily life not only for those diagnosed, but for their caregivers and loved ones. They deserve understanding, resources, and hope, and the Parkinson’s Foundation is delivering on all three.

This marathon isn’t just about honoring Dad’s memory. It’s about supporting the millions of people still living with Parkinson’s and the families who support them daily. I often think about how different our journey might have been if we’d had access to the resources the Parkinson’s Foundation provides when my dad’s symptoms first appeared.

If this effort helps even one person feel less alone, then I’ve done well. 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, day after day and step after step. Running this marathon is a way for me to do the same: 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.