My PD Story

I’ve waited six years to tell my story. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in February 2020, which meant I was navigating this disease and the COVID pandemic at the same time.

I was fortunate to be able to work from home and to have access to health care via telehealth. This gave me an opportunity to slowly adjust to my diagnosis. Sharing that I had Parkinson’s was difficult for me. I told my family and close friends, and eventually trusted colleagues, but I struggled to find the right words.

From the moment I was diagnosed, I made it my mission to learn about Parkinson’s disease and find out what I could do to stay healthy and active for as long as possible. That research began with the Parkinson’s Foundation website.

As someone who has always prioritized fitness, I was relieved to learn that exercise is one treatment that might help slow the progression of PD. I found specialized trainers who work with people with neurological disorders and joined both group classes and one-on-one sessions. Exercise improved my balance and strength and helped me feel better overall. A surprise benefit was discovering a community of like-minded peers who stay active and live with Parkinson’s.

Early on, I formed a team and participated in Parkinson’s Foundation fundraisers such as Moving Day and Parkinson’s Revolution. It felt good to walk or cycle with friends and raise money for a cause that matters deeply to me. I also took on other volunteer roles, because being involved with the community and helping others with PD helps me cope with the disease.

Six years after my diagnosis, I try not to let Parkinson’s disease define me, but I can no longer pretend it does not slow me down.

In 2026, I was honored to participate in the Parkinson’s Foundation PSA to help spread PD awareness. I chose to participate in the PSA because I want people to know that there are things you can do manage this disease and that being involved with the community and helping others with Parkinson's helps me live well with PD.

I am grateful for the support I have from friends and family, and I try to pay it forward by being available to people who reach out to me when they are newly diagnosed and overwhelmed. I mostly listen and then direct them to resources that have helped me.

Explore the many ways you can get involved with the Parkinson’s Foundation to help spread PD awareness.