My PD Story

I began a health transformation in my 50s and lost 108 pounds. At 56, I completed my first full marathon. Life felt strong. I felt capable. I felt in control.

Then at 58, everything changed.

My leg started shaking — first for weeks, then for months. I eventually went to a neurologist. Parkinson’s disease (PD) was never even a thought in my mind and hearing the words “tremor-dominant Parkinson’s” stopped me cold. April 16, 2025 became a date I’ll never forget. I cried in the parking lot after that appointment.

The first 30 days were hard. I worried about what my future would look like. I wondered what I would lose. I questioned how much of my life Parkinson’s would take.

Then I hit a turning point.

I decided Parkinson’s was going to be part of my life — but it was not going to run my life.

I focused on what I could control. I built my approach around four core pillars: exercise, a positive mindset, a supportive community and faith.

Exercise became non-negotiable. Movement is my medicine. Whether I’m swimming, biking, running, lifting or stretching, I show up. Some days are strong. Some days are hard. But I move — because staying active gives me strength, confidence and hope.

I also chose to lean into community. One phone call to the Parkinson’s Foundation led to several meaningful connections. I raised over $10,000 for Moving Day. In late 2025, I became a Parkinson’s Champion. I'm hopeful to serve on the board for the Carolinas Chapter. I’ve learned that fighting Parkinson’s alone is the hardest way to do it. Don't hide behind the diagnosis.

I turn 60 in 2026, and I’m a triathlete. I’m currently training for my biggest race of the year — the Augusta Ironman 70.3. That’s a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run. I don’t train to prove anything to anyone else. I train to remind myself that I’m still capable. I train to inspire others especially those with limitations.

I also wear custom shirts and hoodies with my diagnosis date on them. They help start conversations with complete strangers. Those conversations create awareness, connection and understanding. It’s one small way I choose to turn my diagnosis into purpose.

If you’re living with Parkinson’s, my advice is simple: stay active as long as you can. Walk. Stretch. Use resistance bands. Do what you can — then do it again tomorrow.

And if you’re a caregiver, hear this: you matter too. Take time for yourself. Taking a break isn’t quitting — it’s refueling.

Parkinson’s changed my path, but it didn’t take my drive, my purpose or my belief in what’s still possible.

And I’m not done yet.

Get involved with the Parkinson’s Foundation in a way that works for you. Find your local chapter and explore our Get Involved page.