When a person shows up in a doctor’s office with symptoms that may be related to Parkinson’s disease (PD), the diagnosis may not be obvious since symptoms often differ from person to person or could be indicative of other conditions. It’s not uncommon for people go from doctor to doctor over months or even years before they get a correct diagnosis. A visit to a movement disorders neurologist may result in a faster PD diagnosis, but unless PD is suspected, that may not be the first medical specialist on someone’s list.
For some, a Parkinson’s diagnosis comes as a relief; an explanation for previously unexplained symptoms. Others may be stunned, struggling with what the future may look like. As you begin processing your emotions, which can be wide-ranging, it’s important to know you are not alone. In this episode, Gretchen Rosswurm describes her experience with getting a PD diagnosis and how she dealt with it. One way was to take advantage of many of the resources of the Parkinson’s Foundation. Gretchen is now the Chair of the People with Parkinson’s Council of the Foundation. Certainly not everyone accepts or approaches a new PD diagnosis in the same way. So Anna Hedges relates some of the questions she has fielded from newly diagnosed callers as a Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline Information Specialist for the past ten years.
Released: October 6, 2020
Gretchen Rosswurm was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2017 at the age of 52. Her commitment to the Parkinson’s community springs from a deep history of PD in her family while at the same time believing that what seems an impossible challenge creates opportunities for connection, healing and hope. Professionally, Gretchen’s work experience centers around corporate philanthropy. She also blogs and writes short fiction. She lives with her family in Dallas. Gretchen was selected to join the Parkinson’s Foundation People with Parkinson’s Council in 2018 and was elected as Chair in 2020 after serving as vice chair.
Anna Hedges, MSW is a Parkinson's information specialist with the Parkinson's Foundation Helpline. She has a Master of Social work from Washington University in St. Louis and has been working on the Parkinson's Helpline for over 10 years. She enjoys interacting with patients and families and witnessing their amazing resiliency.
Planning for the future can feel daunting—but it’s one of the most meaningful ways to care for yourself and your loved ones. In this session, we’ll break down the basics of financial and estate planning in clear, practical terms. Learn how to protect your assets, make informed choices, and create a plan that reflects your values and priorities. Whether you’re just getting started or revisiting your plans, you’ll walk away with the tools and confidence to move forward with peace of mind.
APDA Minnesota Chapter, Parkinson's Foundation, and the Udall Center at the University of Minnesota are the three leading organizations for Parkinson's disease advocacy in Minnesota.
This article shares real experiences from people living with Parkinson’s and highlights what helps them maintain quality of life. It highlights how:
Staying physically active and mentally engaged can improve movement, mood and cognitive function.
A positive mindset and sense of purpose help people cope with challenges and live more fully.
Building community and support systems reduces isolation and provides encouragement.
Learning about Parkinson’s empowers individuals to better understand symptoms and manage their care.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) looks different for everyone. Symptoms vary, as do the ways people maintain and improve their quality of life. People with Parkinson’s often discover strategies that work best for them, whether it’s staying physically active, keeping mentally engaged, connecting with others or practicing gratitude.
The Parkinson’s Foundation offers a wide range of resources to help people manage their symptoms. Additionally, some of the most meaningful insights come from those living with Parkinson’s themselves.
We asked our social media community to share what has helped them live well with Parkinson’s. Here’s what they had to say:
Exercise and Movement
Staying physically active was one of the most popular strategies. Research shows that regular exercise can improve mobility, balance, mood and even cognitive function for people living with Parkinson’s. Many described movement not just as therapy, but as empowerment.
“Exercise and staying mentally active have helped me the most. I was diagnosed in 2018. Don’t give up. Sometimes I have to force myself to exercise, but I always feel better when I do.” - Val
“I was diagnosed at age 75 and I plan on being here for a long time. I exercise every day, walk a couple of miles, take my medication and listen to my doctor.”- Frank
“A dance class called Dance Health Alliance has helped me a lot. You can even do it sitting in a chair if you have balance issues. It’s definitely helped improve my walking.” - Christine
Keeping the brain active can be just as important as keeping the body moving. Engaging in hobbies, learning new skills and staying mentally stimulated may support cognitive health and overall well-being.
For many, creative expression and intellectual engagement provide both joy and a sense of purpose.
“Learning new tunes and staying musically active has been a real benefit. I’ve been a professional musician for over 50 years and staying active in my music career — even at age 71 — has helped keep my Parkinson’s under control.” - Joe
“I write short stories, read, belong to a book club and take part in quizzes.” - Val
Mindset, Hope and Perspective
A positive outlook doesn’t erase the challenges of Parkinson’s — but many people shared that mindset plays a powerful role in how they navigate them.
“I was diagnosed 25 years ago, in my 40s and I’m now in my 70s. Focus on what you still have. If you have love, learning and laughter — even a friendly phone call or a good book — you are lucky.” - Fillis
“What truly helped me was hope with purpose. When I stopped seeing Parkinson’s as an ending and started seeing it as a teacher, everything changed. Healing isn’t just about the body — it’s about the mind, heart and spirit working together.” - Ellen
“After my diagnosis, I started learning about Parkinson’s and its treatments. I’ve learned to accept it, appreciate the small blessings, exercise, take my medication as prescribed and live with a positive attitude.” - Daisy
These reflections remind us that resilience can take many forms, including acceptance, gratitude, determination or simply continuing forward one day at a time.
Community and Support
Connecting with others who understand Parkinson’s can reduce isolation and provide encouragement. A strong online or in-person support network often makes a meaningful difference.
“As a woman in my 30s with young-onset Parkinson’s, community has helped me the most. Exercise is second and reading The Parkinson’s Plan has also been incredibly helpful.” - Erin
“Joining the Facebook group Life With Parkinson’s and accessing resources like yours has been extremely helpful. I also participated in an eight-week class for the newly diagnosed through my local hospital.” -Lin
Many people living with Parkinson’s find that sharing experiences, learning together and supporting one another strengthens both confidence and quality of life.
Explore our Community Network groups that empower key groups within the PD community — including people who are newly diagnosed, women with PD, those with early-onset PD and more! Find your community.
Learning about PD
Learning more about Parkinson’s can bring clarity, reassurance and empowerment. Understanding movement and non-movement symptoms can help people feel more in control of their care.
“Education has helped me so much. I didn’t realize many of my symptoms were part of Parkinson’s. Learning about the disease helped me understand that I’m not crazy. Physical therapy has also made a huge difference.” - Sharon
When people understand what is happening in their brain and bodies, it can ease uncertainty and make it easier to advocate for the care they need.
Living well with Parkinson’s does not mean symptoms disappear — it means finding tools, support and perspective that help you move forward.
As these shared experiences show, there is no single path. What works for one person may look different for another, and that’s okay.
If you’re looking for support, resources or ways to connect, we are here to help. Explore resources and information at Parkinson.org or contact our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).
Pregúntele a PAM: La nueva herramienta de chat impulsada por IA de la Parkinson’s Foundation
🧠 ¿Qué aprenderá en este artículo?
Este artículo presenta la nueva herramienta de chat impulsada por IA de la Parkinson’s Foundation, Pregúntele a PAM (Ask PAM, Parkinson’s Assistance Messenger o mensajero de asistencia para el Parkinson) y cómo funciona. Destaca:
Qué tipo de preguntas acerca del Parkinson puede hacerle a PAM.
Cómo protege PAM su privacidad y brinda información precisa.
Cómo lo conecta PAM con la Línea de Ayuda de la Parkinson’s Foundation.
Cómo comenzar a usar la herramienta de chat PAM impulsada por IA en Parkinson.org.
Pregúntele a PAM (mensajero de asistencia para el Parkinson) es una herramienta de chat impulsada por IA de parte de la Parkinson’s Foundation que brinda respuestas confiables con base en evidencia acerca de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP), en cualquier momento, en cualquier lugar.
Vivir con la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) a menudo conlleva preguntas acerca de los síntomas, tratamientos, los cuidados, la investigación o qué hacer después del diagnóstico. Ahora, obtener información confiable es más rápido y fácil que nunca.
PAM se creó para darle a las personas con Parkinson y sus cuidadores acceso instantáneo a información precisa y arraigada en la Parkinson’s Foundation, 24 horas al día, siete días a la semana.
¿Qué es PAM?
PAM se refiere a las siglas en inglés, Parkinson’s Assistance Messenger. Usa inteligencia artificial (IA) para brindar respuestas con base en recursos confiables de la Parkinson’s Foundation.
Las plataformas de chat, —como ChatGPT y ahora PAM—, son aplicaciones avanzadas que usan la IA y el aprendizaje computarizado para simular la conversación humana. Estas plataformas no siguen guiones pre-escritos, sino que entienden el contexto, la intención y aprenden de las interacciones para brindar respuestas más precisas y personalizadas.
PAM está diseñado para entregar información clara y confiable acerca de la enfermedad de Parkinson en cualquier momento del día. PAM puede apoyar la vida con la EP, a los cuidadores y a cualquiera afectado por la EP. Mientras que PAM brinda útil información educativa, no sustituye la asesoría médica de su proveedor de asistencia médica.
¿Qué puedo preguntarle a PAM?
Puede hacerle preguntas a PAM acerca de cualquier cosa relacionada con la enfermedad de Parkinson, incluyendo síntomas, diagnósticos, opciones de tratamiento, seguridad hospitalaria, apoyo al aliado en el cuidado, investigaciones y más. Puede escribir preguntas u oraciones completas, como:
Me diagnosticaron de Parkinson. ¿Qué puedo hacer ahora?
¿El ejercicio ayuda a manejar los síntomas del Parkinson?
¿Qué debería saber si tengo la EP y necesito ir al hospital?
¿Cómo puedo ayudar a mi padre/madre que tiene Parkinson?
¿El Parkinson es genético? ¿Debería considerar hacerme una prueba genética?
Sí. PAM es seguro y confidencial. Si elige enviar su información de contacto para dar seguimiento a través de su conversación con PAM, será compartida de forma segura con el equipo de la Línea de Ayuda para que podamos darle un mejor apoyo. PAM no almacena su información personal de salud más allá de lo requerido para responder a su solicitud.
¿Cómo es diferente PAM de la Línea de Ayuda de la Parkinson’s Foundation?
PAM siempre está disponible para brindar respuestas instantáneas en línea, cuando las necesite. La Línea de Ayuda de la Parkinson’s Foundation lo conecta con especialistas de la información que ofrecen asistencia personalizada en horarios laborales.
Contacte a nuestra Línea de Ayuda para:
Respuestas a sus preguntas de la EP: Diagnóstico de la EP, tratamiento, vida diaria, preocupaciones de los cuidadores, investigaciones, ensayos clínicos, Parkinson avanzado y más.
Referencias de profesionales de la salud y recursos comunitarios para apoyo local.
Información personalizada: brindamos versiones digitales o impresas de nuestros recursos incluyendo libros, hojas informativas y enlaces a programas educativos y locales.
Recursos para cualquiera en la comunidad de la EP, así como quienes les brindan cuidado y servicios.
Ambos servicios están para usted; elija la alternativa que mejor cubra sus necesidades. Si quiere hablar con alguien directamente, contacte a la Línea de Ayuda de la Parkinson’s Foundation al 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636), opción 3 para español o escriba a Helpline@Parkinson.org.
¿Por qué lanzar una herramienta de chat impulsada por IA dedicada al Parkinson?
La Parkinson’s Foundation lanzó la herramienta de chat impulsada por la IA para brindar más apoyo a las personas en cualquier lugar y en cualquier momento. Cada etapa del Parkinson trae nuevas preguntas: una herramienta impulsada por la IA puede brindar respuestas inmediatas y confiables en el momento.
Al complementar nuestra Línea de Ayuda, PAM refleja el compromiso de la Fundación con hacer accesible la información. Obtener respuestas a las preguntas acerca del Parkinsons empodera a las personas con la EP y a sus aliados en el cuidado para defenderse para obtener una mejor atención y vivir mejor con Parkinson.
Nuestro asistente por IA brinda a los usuarios información general y apoyo relacionado con la enfermedad de Parkinson y la Fundación. La información que brinda el Asistente de IA de la Fundación es sólo para fines educativos en general y no deberá considerarse para tomar cualquier decisión médica o relativa a la salud de cualquier individuo. No se trata de consejos médicos y no pretende sustituir la asesoría de un proveedor de asistencia médica. No nos haremos responsables de cualquier situación derivada de la información brindada por el Asistente de IA y no aseguramos que esté actualizada, completa o plenamente precisa, ni que aplique a las circunstancias particulares de cualquier individuo. El Asistente de IA de la Fundación opera con base en la información que usted le comparte voluntariamente durante su conversación. Podremos retener información que usted brinde a nuestro Asistente de IA y usarla para mejorar nuestro servicio y otras actividades de la Fundación. Podremos compartir información que usted brinde a nuestros terceros proveedores que apoyen a la Fundación a mejorar sus servicios y otras actividades. Salvo según lo que se indica en esta sección, no usamos ni revelamos la información que usted brinde a través del Asistente de IA de la Fundación.
In April 2023, shortly after turning 56, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD). At the time, I was immersed in a demanding career and didn’t have time for Parkinson’s. Wasn’t there a pill or a shot to make it go away? Well, no. I didn’t immediately accept that I was on a journey — I had a lot to learn.
Looking back, I’d been on that journey for years without realizing it. About five years before my diagnosis, my handwriting grew smaller and messier. I couldn’t hold a pen quite right. I googled it: “classic symptom of Parkinson’s.” No way, I thought. I dismissed it.
Not long after, I began to feel “off” — a kind of baseline anxiety that didn’t feel like regular stress. That eventually passed with treatment. Then, while walking one day, I noticed my left arm just hanging there. Wasn’t it supposed to swing? I checked again: “classic symptom of Parkinson’s.” Still, I pushed it aside. I was too young, I told myself.
Then came a twitchy thumb. A foot tremor. I finally asked my primary care doctor, “Could this be Parkinson’s?” The response: “Possible, but not likely.”
When the tremor worsened, I was referred to a movement disorders specialist (a neurologist with specialized training in Parkinson’s and movement disorders). After an exam and a DaTscan, I had my answer. It was Parkinson’s.
What next? I turned to the Parkinson’s Foundation to bridge the gap between diagnosis and this unexpected detour in life.
Its library of resources helped me better understand this complex, often misunderstood disease. The Helpline was invaluable. I joined a local support group and connected with others online, learning from their experiences and offering my own.
Two years into this journey, what advice would I give? First, don’t go at it alone. Learn everything you can and connect with others. Next, exercise — early and often. And finally, don’t ignore the little signs. That left arm might be trying to tell you something.
Living with Parkinson's can be challenging, but there are many things that you can do to maintain and improve your quality of life. This program will provide you with information to help you find the balance between a proactive approach and wondering what lies ahead.
The Resource Fair will feature local Community Partners that provide services and support for the Parkinson's Community.
Event Volunteers Needed! Service hours and lunch are provided. To sign up and learn more, visit: Volunteer Sign-up here.
For in-person attendees: Check-in and Resource Fair start at 9 a.m. Lunch will be served.
Unloading/Room Location: The program is located at the Main Entrance, Building B. Parking and drop-off is in front of the building. Parking is complimentary. For the entrance to our parking lot, use this address: 500 NE 2nd St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
There is no charge to attend, but registration is required since lunch will be served. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends and the community.
APDA Minnesota Chapter, Parkinson's Foundation, and the Udall Center at the University of Minnesota are the three leading organizations for Parkinson's disease advocacy in Minnesota.
This article introduces five policies at the federal and state levels directly influence the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). It highlights how:
Increased federal and state funding is essential to accelerate Parkinson’s research and support breakthroughs.
Policies directly influence access to timely high‑quality Parkinson’s care and can speed up a PD diagnosis.
Environmental health regulations, such as banning paraquat, can reduce risks linked to developing Parkinson’s.
When you’re living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), the decisions made on Capitol Hill and in state capitals across the country can directly shape daily life. Whether it’s the funding that drives breakthrough research, the policies that determine whether you can access a specialist, or the environmental protections that could prevent PD in the first place, policy is personal.
Last month, that truth came to life in a powerful way. From March 15-18, more than 300 advocates from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C. for the 2026 Parkinson’s Policy Forum, an event that united people living with PD, care partners, clinicians, researchers and advocates to carry the message of the Parkinson’s community to Congress.
The Forum was an inspiring reminder of what we can accomplish when we speak with one voice. While the Forum has wrapped, the momentum it generated is just beginning. The policy priorities that advocates championed on Capitol Hill affect every person living with Parkinson's and there are still powerful ways to make your voice heard.
1. Implementation of the National Parkinson’s Project
The National Parkinson’s Project is a historic milestone: the first-ever federal initiative dedicated to Parkinson's disease. Congress passed a law to create the National Parkinson’s Project in 2024, but that is only the beginning. Implementation requires continued pressure and advocacy to ensure the initiative moves forward without delay.
The Parkinson's Foundation is working to protect this landmark project and build momentum as the government moves to put it into action. That means urging the Department of Health and Human Services to seat the National Parkinson’s Project Advisory Council so they can begin their vital work to help prevent, diagnose, treat and ultimately cure Parkinson’s and recommendations to improve quality of life for those living with PD. This project represents a generational opportunity, and advocates like you help keep it on track.
2. Increased Investment for PD Research
We are closer than ever to developing treatments that could slow or stop Parkinson's, not just manage its symptoms. But that progress depends on sustained investment. Federal support for PD research has not kept pace with the rapid growth of the disease, and funding uncertainty puts critical breakthroughs at risk.
The Parkinson's Foundation is advocating for increased investments, including $600 million a year in National Institutes of Health-funded Parkinson's research, as well as complementary investments at the state level that build on and expand what federal funding makes possible.
Every dollar invested in research brings us one step closer to a cure — and every advocate who makes the case to a lawmaker helps secure that funding.
3. Timely, Affordable and Quality Parkinson’s Care
Parkinson's is the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disease, with 90,000 new diagnoses every year. Yet access to quality care is increasingly out of reach for many people. Shortages of movement disorders specialists mean long travel distances. Coverage gaps and unpredictable costs create added stress. Quality of care varies widely depending on where you live.
The Parkinson’s Foundation supports policies that change this reality by making it easier to diagnose and treat PD, stabilizing and expanding telehealth coverage to reach people wherever they are, and ensuring robust public health programs that support both care and research. Quality Parkinson’s care should not be determined by your zip code.
Whether it’s expanding telehealth access or strengthening Medicare coverage, these policy changes have a direct impact on your ability to get the care needed to live well with PD.
4. Address Environmental Health Threats Linked to Parkinson’s
The causes of Parkinson’s are complex, but research has linked environmental risks — including certain chemicals like paraquat and trichloroethylene (TCE) — to an increased risk of developing PD. Even though paraquat has been banned in more than 70 countries, including China, this pesticide is still sold and used in the U.S.
The Parkinson’s Foundation is pushing the Environmental Protection Agency and state governments to end the use of paraquat in the U.S. This policy change could prevent countless future cases of PD, particularly in rural communities where pesticide exposure is most common.
Policy change can protect future generations from ever receiving a Parkinson's diagnosis. That is a powerful thing to advocate for.
5. Education: Access to PD Information
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to early diagnosis and living well with Parkinson’s. Yet too many people with PD, their families, and even their healthcare providers lack access to timely, high-quality, tailored information about the disease.
The Parkinson’s Foundation is advancing policy changes that improve PD education for people with Parkinson’s, care partners and healthcare professionals. Better-informed healthcare professionals mean earlier diagnoses and better care. Better-informed patients and families mean more confident, empowered decision-making at every stage. Access to PD information also support prevention, helping communities recognize risk factors and take action before a diagnosis occurs.
People with Parkinson’s are at the center of everything we do, and ensuring they have the information they need is one of the most meaningful ways policy can improve lives right now.
Your Voice Can Change Everything
There is a direct connection between the actions we take today and the future we want to see. The research funding secured this year can become the new treatment option available in five years. The telehealth policy passed today means your neighbor in a rural county can see a specialist next month. The paraquat ban advocated for now could mean one fewer diagnosis in your community.
Ready to make a difference? Visit our Advocacy Center to join our Advocacy Network, contact your representatives, and take action on the issues that matter most to the PD community today.
On Saturday, May 2nd at 9:30am, come walk a mile to raise awareness for Parkinson's disease. Donations go to the Parkinson's Foundation New Jersey & Pennsylvania Chapter and Rock Steady Boxing Toms River.
APDA Minnesota Chapter, Parkinson's Foundation, and the Udall Center at the University of Minnesota are the three leading organizations for Parkinson's disease advocacy in Minnesota.
Understanding Cognition & Thinking Changes in Parkinson’s
March 19, 2026
Changes in memory, attention, and problem-solving are common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s that can affect daily life, relationships, and independence. In this webinar, we’ll explore how Parkinson’s impacts cognitive function and what veterans and care partners can do to recognize, manage, and adapt to these changes. We'll also discuss when to seek additional support, how the VA addresses cognitive health, and which tools and therapies may help maintain brain function and quality of life.
Anita Sim, PhD
Neuropsychologist, Minneapolis VA Health Care System
Christy Becker, MA, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist, Minneapolis VA Health Care System
Konner Kielman, OTD, OTR/L, LSVT BIG Certified
PD/MD Staff Occupational Therapist, Minneapolis VA Health Care System
My PD Story
People with PD
Kim Lundgreen
My name is Kim Lundgreen. I just turned 68. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2017 at the University of Utah’s Movement Disorder Clinic, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence, in Salt Lake City. I remember thinking, “What a strange name for a place.”
My wife, Mindy, was 50 at the time. She cried when we heard the diagnosis. I was stunned. Shocked.
Prior to my diagnosis, running was more than exercise. It was my therapy, my prayer time, personal solitude time, my way of solving the world’s problems. I was an ultramarathon runner with nearly 50 marathons and ultramarathons under my belt. I ran the St. George Marathon 25 years in a row. I once beat ultramarathon legend Dean Karnazes at the finish line there during his famous 50/50/50 tour. That moment qualified me to run Boston two years later.
When I received the diagnosis, my first reaction was dramatic but honest: “If I can’t run anymore, I’ll go to Yosemite and base jump off El Capitan without a parachute.” That’s how much running meant to me.
Parkinson’s had forced me to stop running altogether. Symptoms like rigidity (stifffness), cramping and neuropathy made training nearly impossible.
Then, last June (after Cassie Webster, my Rock Steady Boxing coach kept encouraging me for years to try) I completed the Logan Peak Trail Run with a right sprained ankle, an ultra-distance race of 28 miles with over 7,000 feet of elevation gain with virtually no training. It was my first race in five years.
I fought my way back.
A news article in the Herald Journal highlighted the run. KSL News out of Salt Lake City, after getting wind of my seemingly impossible feat, covered my successful summit of the Middle Teton via the Southwest Couloir, which I achieved just a couple weeks prior. We climbed at night with headlamps, ice axes and micro-spikes. My “soul brother” David Toone saved my life more than once on that descent as my symptoms kicked in. Exhaustion, vertigo and total fatigue set in hard.
Throughout everything, I needed information about Parkinson’s and I found on Parkinson.org — I love the website and it has been very helpful for me.
Two years after my diagnosis, in the fall of 2018, Mindy received devastating news of her own: serious ovarian cancer. We had no warning, and the shock was overwhelming. Suddenly, we were both facing life-threatening diseases, and the reality of our situation hit hard. We both wept when Mindy’s doctor gave us the grim news while we were shopping together.
In that moment, I felt a heavy burden of responsibility. I had to be strong for Mindy, and I also had to manage my own Parkinson’s. We were both in for the fight of our lives.
Mindy was only 52, and I had just turned 62. Our dreams for our golden years felt shattered. I remember lying awake that night, overwhelmed by a sense of doom. I prayed to God, “Why now? Isn’t Parkinson’s enough for us?”
I lost Mindy, my beautiful wife of 23 years, in 2024 to ovarian cancer after a brutal five-year fight. She was only 57. We were both strong, active and healthy. We mountain biked, ran trails, paddle-boarded, lifted weights, practiced yoga and stayed committed to our physical and spiritual health.
Experiencing loss with Parkinson’s is horrible, however movement and exercise — especially weight-lifting, trail running combined with my Rock Steady Boxing now — are so vital for me in providing hope and light each new day!
A few months ago I spoke to the Salt Lake City support group alongside the doctors from University of Utah neurology, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence, and that was very powerful for me and for the audience. It was a win-win.
Parkinson’s disease is relentless. The only real weapon against Parkinson’s is movement. Exercise, especially strength training and cardio, has been shown to slow the progression of the disease.
I’ve made intense exercise a daily part of my routine, seven days a week. It’s the “silver bullet” that keeps me fighting, and I’m convinced it’s the key to maintaining a good quality of life while living with PD. Also, it is so helpful to me in coping with Mindy’s death.
Now, I carry her with me through every climb, every run, and every battle with Parkinson’s.
