## Breadcrumb - [Home](/) - [Living with Parkinson's](/living-with-parkinsons) - [My PD Story](/living-with-parkinsons/stories) ## Breadcrumb - [Home](/) - [Living with Parkinson's](/living-with-parkinsons) - [My PD Story](/living-with-parkinsons/stories) # My PD Story ![Jessica R. headshot](/sites/default/files/styles/470x550/public/images/jessica-r-pd-story-hero.jpg?h=c9aea1bc&itok=IsR6HGc1) People with PD ## Jessica R. I’m 36 years old and live in New York City. Twelve years ago, at just 24 years old, I was [diagnosed](/understanding-parkinsons/getting-diagnosed "Getting Diagnosed") with Parkinson’s disease (PD). It was completely unexpected, especially since no one in my family has Parkinson’s. At the time, it was hard to imagine what the future would look like. Looking back now, I can honestly say that while Parkinson’s has changed my life, it hasn’t stopped me from living it. In many ways, it has given me a new sense of purpose and a chance to help others. For many years, I relied on [levodopa](/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/prescription-medications/levodopa "Levodopa") every two to three hours to manage my [symptoms](/understanding-parkinsons/movement-symptoms "Movement Symptoms"). Finding the right balance was challenging. Some days I experienced [dyskinesia](/understanding-parkinsons/movement-symptoms/dyskinesia "Dyskinesia"), while other days my [tremors](/understanding-parkinsons/movement-symptoms/tremor "Tremor") were more noticeable. I worked closely with my doctors, adjusting doses and trying different approaches, but it often felt like I was chasing the right combination. In the summer of 2021, while spending more time at home during the pandemic, I realized my symptoms were becoming more difficult to manage. Around that time, I attended a webinar about [deep brain stimulation (DBS)](/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/surgical-treatment-options/deep-brain-stimulation "Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)"), and it gave me hope that there might be another option. I talked with my neurologist who felt I was a good candidate. Six weeks later, I had the surgery. After several weeks of programming appointments, we found the settings that worked best for me, and now I only return once a year for adjustments. For me, DBS was truly life-changing. Since my surgery, I have not needed to take levodopa, and I feel incredibly grateful for the difference it has made in my daily life. Today, I focus on what I *can* do. I stay active with Pilates, boxing, and [physical therapy](/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/physical-occupational-speech-therapies "Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapies"). [Exercise](/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/exercise "Exercise") has become one of the most important tools in managing my Parkinson’s. [The Bandeen Center](https://parkinsonswf.org/the-bandeen-center/) in NYC has also been an invaluable part of my journey, providing specialized fitness programs, education and a supportive community that helps me stay strong and motivated. I also make time for the things that bring me joy. I always have a trip planned or something to look forward to, and that excitement keeps me moving forward. Every summer, I travel to Europe. Parkinson’s has never stopped me from exploring the world. Over the past 12 years, I’ve learned that living well with Parkinson’s is about building the right support system and finding what works for you. I’m fortunate to have an incredible [team of doctors](/living-with-parkinsons/finding-care "Finding Care"), and together we’ve found ways to help me continue living the life I want. If sharing my experiences can make someone else’s journey a little easier, then every conversation is worthwhile. > One of the greatest sources of support has been the Parkinson’s Foundation. My doctor introduced me to the Foundation, and it has become a place where I can find trusted [resources](/resources-support "Resources & Support"), connect with others, share my story, and advocate for people living with Parkinson’s — especially those with [young-onset Parkinson’s disease](/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons/young-onset-parkinsons "Young-Onset Parkinson's"). One thing I’ve learned is that everyone’s Parkinson’s journey is unique. No two people have the same symptoms, treatment plan or experience, and that’s OK. Try not to compare your path to anyone else’s. Focus on taking one step at a time and finding the approach that helps you be the best version of yourself. When I was first diagnosed, I was encouraged to keep it private, so I only shared my diagnosis with my closest family and friends. For a while, I let Parkinson’s define me. Over time, though, I realized that Parkinson’s is only one part of who I am — it is not my whole story. With the right support, resources and mindset, it’s possible to continue pursuing your goals, making memories and finding joy. That’s why I choose to share my story. I hope it reminds others that there is hope after a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Be curious, ask questions, advocate for yourself and don’t be afraid to lean on your support system. Every year, [advances in research](/advancing-research "Advancing Research"), technology and medicine are creating new possibilities for people living with Parkinson’s. Your life may look different than you expected, but it can still be full, meaningful and joyful. Parkinson’s is part of my story, but it is far from the whole story. **Learn more about** [**young-onset Parkinson’s disease**](/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons/young-onset-parkinsons "Young-Onset Parkinson's")**.** ## Related Materials Podcasts ### [ Episode 10: Young-Onset Parkinson’s 101 ](/library/podcast/10) [Listen Now](/library/podcast/10) Videos & Webinars ### [ Understanding Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) ](/library/videos/understanding-dbs) [Watch Now](/library/videos/understanding-dbs) Podcasts ### [ Episode 162: Research Series: Getting Involved in Research with Young-Onset PD ](/library/podcast/162) [Listen Now](/library/podcast/162) ## More Stories from the Parkinson's community ![Gary Krajewski headshot](/sites/default/files/styles/340x400/public/images/gary-krajewski-pd-story-hero.jpg?h=c9aea1bc&itok=jbMtYx20) People with PD ### [ Gary Krajewski ](/living-with-parkinsons/stories/gary-krajewski) READ NOW ![Melinda Young headshot](/sites/default/files/styles/340x400/public/images/melinda-young-pd-story-hero.jpg?h=c9aea1bc&itok=IGUTuGIt) People with PD ### [ Melinda Young ](/living-with-parkinsons/stories/melinda-young) READ NOW ![John with family at a Moving Day event](/sites/default/files/styles/340x400/public/images/john-poma-pd-story-hero.jpg?h=c9aea1bc&itok=AVirwAmI) People with PD ### [ John Poma ](/living-with-parkinsons/stories/john-poma) READ NOW [VIEW ALL STORIES](/living-with-parkinsons/stories) ### Share your Story Do you have an experience with Parkinson's that you would like to share? [SUBMIT YOUR STORY](/living-with-parkinsons/my-pd-story/submit) ### PD Library Deep dive into Parkinson’s topics that matter most to you. Explore our books, podcast episodes, fact sheets, videos and more — all available in our PD Library. [Explore Now](/resources-support/pd-library) - Share on Facebook - Share on X - Share on LinkedIn