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.

I have always been involved in caring for people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by elderly relatives, including my grandfather, who was diagnosed with PD at a relatively early age.

I witnessed how important mobility was for my grandfather’s well-being and how my grandmother was a force in his life. She was his strongest advocate. One memory I have of her support is when she would have me take him to the local pool to work on his strength and balance in the water.

Later, I was privileged to support one of my uncles who also had PD. I remember how my aunt assisted him and how music was instrumental in his movement. Memories of him dancing with my cousin in the hospital hallway will always stay with me.

As I started to think about my own career, I did not initially plan to have a career in medicine. I originally studied health policy and was interested in gerontology (the study of aging). I was exposed to the policy side, but I found that the work — while important — did not allow me the human connections that I enjoyed while working in college at an adult day care center.

Once I decided to go to medical school, I was drawn to physical medicine and rehabilitation where the focus was on restoration and maximizing function.

When I joined Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in 2018, the director of the Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Disorders (PDMD) Program asked if I would be one of the clinicians in the program, and I have been a part of the PDMD clinic ever since. Today, I serve as the medical director of the program, and I am proud to work with the PD community each day.

Our work in the PDMD Program is built on an interdisciplinary approach. Our team of physicians; physical, occupational and speech therapists; psychologists; and exercise physiologists all work together to identify customized personal recommendations for our patients.

We have a unique system with multiple levels of care: inpatient rehabilitation, day rehabilitation and outpatient care, as well as functional fitness classes to help meet this diverse population’s functional needs. We recognize that not everyone has the same level of support at home, and we tailor our care accordingly.

In addition to our clinical practice, we also collaborate on PD research at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. We have rehabilitation outcome measures based on our extensive patient data. Together with Northwestern University’s neurologists and scientists, who have collected genetic data on people with PD, we are hoping to determine which patients with PD may respond well to exercise therapies versus those who may need an alternative approach.

Being able to tailor therapy based on a patient’s genetics is exciting for the future of PD treatment.

Outside the clinic, members of our team are involved in various PD organizations on local, national and international levels. We will be sending a team to the World Parkinson’s Congress this May.

Additionally, we have a team of patients and clinicians, called the “Parkinson’s Peak Performers,” who participate in Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s SkyRise Chicago each year and recently participated in the Parkinson’s Revolution ride to raise funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation.

What keeps me motivated in my work are the relationships my team has built with our patients over time. We meet many of our patients early in their disease, and we collaborate with them to help maintain and optimize their function over the course of their PD progression.

Every patient and their care partners are unique and bring something special to each visit. Whether it be suggestions about our current programs or ones they would like to see in the future, we are fortunate to have an advisory board of patients and care partners who provide us with ideas and feedback.

Once again, I always go back to my childhood and how my grandmother cared for my grandfather with PD. She often said, “It’s about the quality of life, not just quantity.” I remember her mantra daily. It serves as a reminder to me that members of the PD community are resilient and always looking for ways to improve their quality of life.

Find expert PD care near you. Explore centers in our Global Care Network or contact our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) or Helpline@Parkinson.org to build your care team and find tailored PD specialists.

I’m inspired to work with individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) because I see how profoundly exercise can change the trajectory of their lives.

In my role as manager of adaptive fitness programs at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, I oversee, develop and continuously evolve exercise programs for people living with neurological and orthopedic conditions, including Parkinson’s.

When people learn to connect their mind and body and move with intention, exercise becomes a tool for independence, and that transformation in their mindset is what keeps me committed to this work.

My primary goals are to make sure that every person has access to safe, appropriately challenging exercise — and to help them create long-term, consistent exercise habits. I work with people across the entire spectrum of PD, from those in their 40s with early-onset PD to those in very advanced stages who require significant physical support.

For people with PD, exercise truly is medicine … and the benefits are numerous:

• Regular, properly prescribed movement helps people with PD manage symptoms such as bradykinesia (slowness of movement), hypokinesia (reduced speed of muscle movement), rigidity (stiffness), postural instability, gait and balance changes.
• Working with experienced exercise professionals enables individuals with PD to gain symptom awareness and learn practical exercise strategies to use at home.
• Specialized fitness training, as well as group exercise, provides tremendous mental and emotional support to help people feel empowered.

While many individuals with PD know exercise is essential, they may not know how to structure it or how often to exercise. Through our fitness center at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, they don’t have to figure that out on their own. 

With 24 weekly classes, our participants can attend multiple sessions per week (or even multiple times per day) for a well-rounded exercise program that includes balance, endurance, strength, progressive resistance training, boxing, Tai Chi, flexibility and mobility training. In addition, I collaborate closely with our hospital’s Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Disorders program, and all of our classes integrate PD-specific movement strategies and symptom education.

Our fitness center also is equipped with specialized tools, including an anti-gravity treadmill for people with PD to work on improving their gait, speed and power, as well as overhead harness systems for those in later stages to work on standing balance, walking and postural control without fear of falling.

As a result of consistent exercise, the people I meet through my work at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab don’t just get stronger; they regain confidence.

I’ve watched people go from identifying themselves by their diagnosis to identifying themselves by what they can do: traveling again, dancing, getting up from the floor independently, participating in community events, navigating airports, walking long distances or going on challenging heights. They tell us what they were able to accomplish because they felt steadier and more prepared.

As people living with PD get started on an exercise program, my advice is to pause before defining your future based on what you read online.

I often see people come in overwhelmed and frightened by not knowing what to expect in the years ahead. Instead of focusing on what might be lost, I encourage people to focus on all that is possible. When people feel informed, supported and physically capable, they often regain a sense of control, hope and possibility.

At the end of the day, the PD community taught me the power of showing up for one another. There is something uniquely strong about this population — building lasting friendships, encouraging each other through hard days, celebrating small wins and advocating not just for themselves, but for the entire community. The PD community reminds me that progress is not just physical — it’s emotional as well.

Learn more about exercise and find a local PD-tailored exercise class through your nearest Parkinson’s Foundation Chapter. Find your Parkinson’s Foundation Chapter here.

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.

Turning a Diagnosis into a New Purpose

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2019 after my wife noticed a tremor in my left hand. Like many people, I left that initial doctor appointment with more questions than answers. For a period of time, I focused on following medical advice, maintaining my routine and not projecting too far into the future. I believed I was managing Parkinson’s, but in reality, I was largely reacting to it.

Over time, it became clear that a passive approach wasn’t neutral — it had consequences. I noticed gradual changes and realized that waiting for Parkinson’s to dictate next steps limited my options. That marked a shift in how I approached the disease. I decided to take a more active role, both in managing my own health and in contributing to broader efforts aimed at improving outcomes for people with Parkinson’s.

One of my first focus areas was exercise. As I began educating myself, the Parkinson’s Foundation resources on movement were critical. Their recommendation to incorporate four types of exercise — aerobic activity, strength training, balance and agility work, and flexibility — gave me a clear, practical framework. It became the foundation of my exercise plan. I used it to structure my weekly training, build variety into my workouts and ensure I was addressing multiple aspects of movement.

From that base, I began setting goals and layering in events as a way to stay consistent and accountable.

Over the past few years, that approach led me to complete seven triathlons, eleven Spartan obstacle course races and three races up the Empire State Building stairs. These events weren’t about competition. They provided structure, measurable milestones and a reason to remain engaged over the long term. Training for events helped translate an abstract recommendation (exercise is important) into a concrete, sustainable practice.

With each event, I gained confidence — not only in my physical capacity, but in my ability to influence my own trajectory. That confidence began to shape how I approached other aspects of living with Parkinson’s.

I took a broader focus on wellness. Again, Parkinson’s Foundation information played an important role, particularly around nutrition, sleep, stress management and overall lifestyle balance. None of these elements are cures, but together they help tilt the playing field in my favor. I became more intentional about what I eat, how I recover, how I manage stress and how consistently I support my body and brain. The goal wasn’t perfection; it was building habits that support resilience over time.

Advocacy followed. I became involved in efforts supporting the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act, meeting with the staff of seven U.S. Senators. Three ultimately committed to supporting the legislation. That experience demonstrated how individual stories, shared clearly and persistently, can influence policy. It also reinforced my belief that advocacy isn’t limited to professionals — it’s accessible to anyone willing to engage.

Learn more about Parkinson’s-related Policy and Advocacy

At the same time, I became increasingly involved in Parkinson’s research. What began as curiosity developed into active participation. I enrolled in studies, learned directly from researchers and gained insight into how essential patient involvement is to scientific progress. Research provided clarity and purpose, and it led me to become both a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador and a Research Advocate — roles that enable me to help ensure patient perspectives are reflected in the work shaping future treatments.

Looking back, I realized I hadn’t just been responding to Parkinson’s. I had been building a framework for how to live well with it.

Once that became clear, I felt a responsibility to share what I had learned. It all led me to write a book, Living Parkinson’s, and to create livingparkinsons.com as a place to organize information, resources and lessons learned along the way. My goal was to document practical strategies — grounded in lived experience and supported by science — that together form the core of an actionable plan anyone can adapt. Rather than offering prescriptions or guarantees, the focus is on helping people take ownership of their disease and actively fight back in ways that fit their own circumstances.

This journey I’m on has been about agency. Parkinson’s changes life, but it doesn’t eliminate the ability to influence outcomes. Whether it’s exercise, wellness, education, advocacy or research participation, each step builds momentum.

Parkinson’s has altered my story, but it hasn’t determined its direction. My journey isn’t defined by a diagnosis — it’s defined by how I’ve chosen to respond. If sharing that perspective can help someone else take a more active role in their own journey, then the effort has been well worth it.

Help champion policy changes that make life better for people with Parkinson's. Get involved today. 

Finding My Rhythm

For years, I lived with a secret. When you are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), there is this common, almost overwhelming urge to hide it. Whether it’s the fear of not being accepted or the dread of people looking at you with pity, many of us fight to act “normal.” Trying to mask a diagnosis that has become a huge part of your life is exhausting. It’s hard to be your authentic self when you’re hiding.

I was diagnosed at age 51 in February 2021, right in the heart of the pandemic. At the time, I was working full-time as an educator, leading others through the trials of remote and in-person school. The diagnosis felt like a gut punch during an already impossible season. I kept my diagnosis a secret for over a year — I didn’t even tell my family. I had back surgery during the same time to relieve sciatica, which also caused me to have difficulty walking. This made it easier to hide my symptoms as the sciatic pain masked my rigidity.

Coming out of the pandemic and back into reality, the strain of hiding continued. Eventually, I began to let people in and felt a burden lift. I discovered that people are often far more supportive and less judgmental than I thought. Although I don’t tell everyone I meet that I have PD, I’m becoming more open about my journey, hoping that by sharing my story, I can help someone else live their authentic life a little easier.

Adapting and Moving

While Parkinson’s has affected my left side and made handwriting difficult, I haven't let it stop my voice. I’ve discovered that speech-to-text is a game-changer. It’s more efficient than my old way of writing, allowing my thoughts to flow quickly and freely.

I’ve also learned that movement is medicine. My mobility can feel constrained, so working out is a non-negotiable part of my day. If I skip a workout, I feel the difference. The breakthrough for me was finding a specific Parkinson’s exercise group. Not only has it greatly enhanced my physical ability to function, but it has provided me with a network of "warriors" who are on this same path.

The Power of the Tribe

What keeps me happy and hopeful? Connection. Spending time with family and friends is the best way to stay healthy, but connecting with my "PD tribe" is critical. There is a deep, unspoken understanding that exists between us. Attending the 2025 Moving Day Chicago was an uplifting experience — seeing so many people thriving and living well was the best kind of fuel for my spirit.

When I got a call to participate in the new Parkinson's Foundation PSA, I realized this was a chance to connect with even more people in the PD Tribe and help make others feel less alone. 

My Advice: Find Your People

If you are new to this diagnosis, my biggest piece of advice is this: Find your people. Whether it’s an illness or any other life challenge, finding your tribe is essential. The bond you’ll form with those who truly understand your journey will give you a strength you didn't know you had.

Five years into this journey, I’ve learned that staying active — physically, mentally, socially and spiritually — makes all the difference. Don’t hide; reach out. There is so much life to live!

Find your Parkinson’s community when you connect with your nearest Parkinson’s Foundation Chapter. Find your Parkinson’s Foundation Chapter and follow us on social media.

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. Check out the PSA now.

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.

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2018. Before my diagnosis, my left arm would not swing, and I shuffled around the house, dragging my left foot. I used to stoop, but now, with the help of exercise and medication, I can swing my arms as I stand tall and walk with big strides. My movement symptoms are under control with exercise and medication, and most of my new acquaintances don’t even realize I have PD.

I have a quiet voice that has become quieter with Parkinson’s, so I make a conscious effort every day to speak with intent. I completed the 10-week Speak Out program with a speech-language pathologist, and now I meet weekly on Zoom to continue working on my voice. It’s more than just speech—it includes reading and cognitive exercises that keep my mind active.

The thought of PD dementia scares me, so I constantly challenge myself with brain puzzles and word games to stay sharp.

Exercise has truly changed my life. I go for a brisk walk every morning because mornings are my best time of day. During the summer, I love swimming in the pool, and throughout the year I work out at the gym with friends. Three times a week I attend Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) for a vigorous, high-energy workout that pushes both my body and mind.

When I joined RSB, I felt like I had already lost some of my strength, my rhythm and even the ability to jump. But boxing gave all of that back to me. I learned the combinations, moved through obstacle courses, jumped rope again and even found myself skipping to the beat of the music. I was hooked — pun intended.

Now I’m a coach for Rock Steady Boxing, and one of my favorite parts of class is leading dance warm-ups. Music and movement bring me joy. I also completed the BIG physical therapy program and still go through it semi-annually. Staying intentional about my routines keeps me independent — I’m grateful to still be able to drive and manage daily life on my own.

I stay involved with the Parkinson’s Foundation through Moving Day Phoenix, where I serve on the volunteer committee. I’ll never forget my first Moving Day walk. I didn’t know what to expect, but seeing so many people gathered together for one purpose was inspiring. It gave me hope, educational opportunities and new ways to adapt. That experience reminded me that Parkinson’s is manageable if you’re intentional about what you do.

A few years ago, I did genetic testing and was relieved to learn I have no known PD markers. It’s comforting to know it may not be passed on directly to my children.

I may have been on the road to somewhere else, but my current place is still beautiful.

I have wonderful friends, workout groups and support systems that keep me grounded. As I often remind others: Parkinson’s isn’t the end — it’s just the beginning of a new normal. And I intend to make this new normal worthwhile.

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 PD exercise classes near you.