My PD Story

In 2021, I was diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) — a form of Parkinson’s that affects people 50 and under. What began as a devastating and isolating diagnosis has transformed into my life’s mission: to educate, advocate and inspire others navigating life with Parkinson’s.

My journey didn’t start with inspiration — it started with fear, grief and questions like, “Why me?” But through connection with the Parkinson’s community, I discovered strength, purpose and hope. Sharing my story online became my therapy and, eventually, my platform. Today, I’m proud to use my voice to empower others, dismantle stigma and create meaningful conversations around Parkinson’s disease.

I built a thriving social media presence on TikTok and Instagram, where I share raw, real, and educational content about Parkinson’s. This advocacy has opened doors for me to serve as a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador, a Southwest Chapter Advisory Board Member, and a People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council (PPAC) member. These roles have deepened my commitment to creating community and pushing for progress in Parkinson’s care, support and awareness.

Beyond advocacy, I’ve turned my story into a platform for motivation and education:

• Public Speaking and Training: Delivering keynote speeches, workshops and motivational talks on resilience, advocacy and navigating life-changing diagnoses — even infusing a little humor in along the way.

• Podcast Host: Creator of The Mark In The Park Podcast — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music and YouTube — where I dive deep into life with Parkinson’s.

• Founder: Creator of MarkInThePark21.com, a resource hub for individuals and families impacted by Parkinson’s.

For me, advocacy is more than raising awareness — it’s about turning pain into purpose. My goal is to make Parkinson’s visible, relatable and hopeful, and to remind others that life after diagnosis is not over. It’s simply a new chapter.

Mark is a Parkinson’s Foundation volunteer who received our Rising Star Award in 2023. Meet our top volunteers and explore ways to get involved today.