Richard Huckabee is a passionate Parkinson’s advocate, global speaker and retired Executive Manager who lives by two powerful mottos: “Get Better Every Day” and “Every Day I Fight.” Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2013, he transformed adversity into action—turning his journey into a global mission of hope, movement and momentum.

A devoted husband to Angela and proud father, Richard blends his love for global travel, hiking and photography with relentless advocacy. From hot air balloon safaris in Africa to exploring the pyramids, he proves that for him, Parkinson’s does not limit possibility, but fuels purpose.

Honored with the 2023 and 2024 President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award, signed by President Joe Biden, Richard serves as a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador and Research Advocate, an InMotion Ambassador, and a member of the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) Patient Council along with various other non-profit volunteer groups. He has led Ohio delegates on Capitol Hill advocating for increased federal funding for Parkinson’s research and has spoken to thousands, including at the World Parkinson Congress.

Richard is a powerful champion of inclusion in research. He was instrumental in encouraging the Black community to participate in PD GENEration: Powered by the Parkinson’s Foundation, helping ensure genetic research reflects the diversity of the PD community. His advocacy continues to open doors and build trust between underrepresented communities and leading research institutions.

“I want people with Parkinson’s to know that participating in PD GENEration is free, private, doesn’t involve any medications and is a way of contributing to a finding a cure someday. When you get your genetic testing results, you can review them and ask questions with a health professional.” – Richard

Exercise has been central to his journey from day one. In 2013, he participated in a dance drumming research study for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners. From this study, the members of the group formed into a source of invaluable support for Richard and his wife. They continue to meet for breakfast as the “Breakfast Club” and enjoy hikes together.

Additionally, Richard has participated in hundreds of research initiatives and groundbreaking clinical trials, including Cleveland Clinic’s Augmented Reality study, an experience that led to his appearance in the 2025 Cleveland Clinic Super Bowl commercial spotlighting Parkinson’s research.

Whether mentoring those newly diagnosed, collaborating with researchers, speaking internationally or lacing up his hiking boots, Richard inspires others to rise, move and believe in a bright future.

Explore ways to get involved with Parkinson’s research today. Visit our Join A Study page and learn more about PD GENEration, the Parkinson’s Foundation genetics study that offers genetic testing and counseling at no cost to participants.

Kathy McMurray is a force of compassion and action in Evansville, IN, where she serves as a dedicated Ambassador for the Parkinson’s Foundation and a tireless advocate for people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

At just 36 years old, Kathy was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD). Soon after, she began volunteering with the Foundation in 2019. Along the way, she has served as a Community Grantee reviewer, Moving Day volunteer, support group presenter and advocate in securing Senate sponsorship for the Indiana Parkinson’s Registry. She continues to participate in Ambassador trainings, demonstrating her commitment to growth and informed advocacy.

Above all — she leads.

As Board President and Co-Founder of the non-profit PDEVV Hub, Kathy works to ensure that no one in the Evansville region feels alone after diagnosis. Providing access to local resources and fostering genuine human connection has been her driving force. This drive inspired Kathy to start two support groups in Evansville, IN and Hendersonville, KY. 

On the north side of Evansville, where Kathy lives with her husband, Jim, and their dog, something remarkable has quietly taken root. Within just 10 houses, four people are living with Parkinson’s disease — all at different stages.

What could have been isolating has instead become empowering. The neighbors encourage one another. The newly diagnosed find reassurance and shared understanding. Kathy believes fiercely in the strength of a group. “Life changes, but it can still be fun,” she said. 

Kathy is already looking ahead — to continued advocacy and attending the World Parkinson Congress in Phoenix, AZ. Her mission remains clear: to guide others to the support they need and ensure that no one walks this journey alone.

Her work spans local, state, and national levels — but it always returns home to Evansville.

Become a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador today. Join our volunteer community to support people with Parkinson’s. Sign up now.

Fidel Guzman’s PD Story

I came to this country over 30 years ago from Mexico and have worked various jobs throughout my life to support my family. My true passion has always been music. I come from a family of musicians and have been blessed to be part of several bands here in the U.S., where I played the bajo sexto, or the Mexican 12-string guitar, and sang.

I have two daughters, a son, and two granddaughters who motivate me to face the challenges of my diagnosis. My oldest daughter noticed my early Parkinson's disease (PD) symptoms and helped me find a neurologist who gave me the official diagnosis five years ago. Since then, my daughter has made sure I stay active every day and enrolled me in Rock Steady Boxing, which has helped me feel my best.

I didn't think I was going to enjoy it, but movement has truly been like medicine for me. The Foundation says that the type of exercise you enjoy doing most, as long as it's safe, is the best exercise for you.

I also enjoy dancing with my daughters whenever I can. Music is a kind of therapy for me, and it transports me to a place of pure joy. Even my eldest daughter says that when we dance together, my balance is at its best and mobility seems to come to me easier.

I love spending time with my children and granddaughters, and I'm so grateful for their support.

Read Fidel’s story in Spanish

Myrella Guzman’s PD Story

When my father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s five years ago I knew I needed to find out every single thing about Parkinson’s. My father is the most hardworking and loving person I know, and I did everything in my power to help him navigate this disease.

I decided to pursue physical therapy as my career so I could give him the best care possible myself. After graduating and passing my boards I began working with Parkinson’s patients in various settings and came across the realization that movement is medicine.

During this time, I moved in with my significant other five hours away from my dad, which made it difficult to keep my dad motivated and moving. I signed him up for Rock Steady Boxing and he thrived in this class! I noticed such a positive change in his mood and physical state. It was thanks to the Parkinson’s Foundation that I was able to find these classes.

Since his diagnosis, I’ve become inspired, every day, to help people like my dad and their families. I’ve made it my mission to educate not only my patients about the importance of the Parkinson’s Foundation official exercise recommendations, but also my colleagues. Every day alongside other therapists, I try to create a space where the most up to date guidance, professional training and resources are available to everyone with PD who may come through the door.  

As a first-generation Mexican-American, I also know the challenges adult children may face navigating the healthcare system in both English and Spanish. Having resources available in both languages like those the Parkinson’s Foundation provides, has been a lifesaver.

There seems to be a stigma in the Hispanic community about sharing medical hardships, and oftentimes many people with PD — like my father — feel isolated. This is why building community has been such an important part of my father’s journey, and as advocate, part of mine as well. Educating our community about Parkinson's symptoms and treatments is a job I take very seriously.

I am thankful for my siblings who always check in on Dad and for technology which helps me keep in touch with my father daily. I make the most of my monthly trips to take him to his appointments and check in on his progress in person.

I love you, Dad. You are my best friend, and I would do anything to make sure you’re happy and healthy!

Read Myrella’s story in Spanish

Exercise is essential for people living with Parkinson’s. Find your nearest Parkinson’s Foundation Chapter or call our Helpline at 1-800-473-4636 to explore exercise and wellness PD exercise classes near you.