My PD Story

In 2016, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) at the age of 31. To say this diagnosis was difficult would be an understatement. In that moment, I realized that the life I had always envisioned for myself was no longer a possibility. Instead of living my life as I saw fit, I now had to live my life according to what I could plan out. 

Does my job offer disability insurance? How should I approach building a family? Would my spouse even want to build a family knowing what is in store? How long do I have to save, and how much, before I can't work anymore? These are all questions that anyone diagnosed with a chronic illness must face. It took me 3 years to realize that the life I envisioned can still happen, it would just look a little different. 

Since that time, I have dedicated myself to spreading awareness and helping raise funds for Parkinson's. I've worked as a member of the Parkinson’s Foundation People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council, and most recently I have summited mountains I never thought achievable. After all, Ali once said "it's not the mountain ahead that wears you down, but the pebble in your shoe." I take this quote literally and will continue to push myself to new heights. In 2026, on the 10-year anniversary of my diagnosis, I will be attempting to summit Mera Peak in Nepal. This 21,000 ft mountain will represent my journey with PD. While the journey will always be difficult, and often times I will want to break down, but I can't.

To those living with Parkinson's, I challenge each of you to enjoy what makes me happy, and what gives me hope. Challenge yourself every day. I see where I'm at in my life, and I look at where I can be. I want to be able to tell my daughter that you can do anything you put your mind to, and I want to mean that, and lead by example. I want to show that no matter the news, you can find your inspiration and life, and you can ALWAYS find your meaning. No matter where you are in your journey, you can always look up and see the mark you are leaving on this world. Challenge yourself, not only for yourself, but those around you.

Learn more about young-onset Parkinson’s disease