My first symptom of Parkinson's appeared in 2008 as a cramping in the toes of my right foot.  Mild tremors of my right hand began soon after that.  Within a few months I had an assessment done at Michigan State University and was diagnosed with this terrible disease.  I began fighting immediately with Rock Steady Boxing sessions weekly and exercising every day.  I took my medications religiously and went to the doctor regularly.  The work, research, and resources have paid off.  For the past seventeen years I have pretty much been able to live a normal life and do the things I enjoy.  But eventually the disease stops responding to the treatments.  As walking and driving get harder and doing small tasks becomes more difficult I realize that there is much more to be done to reign in and eliminate this affliction.  I have always been an active person and the thought of immobility is terrifying.  Please join the fight to help me and the thousands of other Michiganders who are battling this monster.

The revenues from our fundraising events are essential to help ensure that no person with Parkinson’s in Michigan and their families are without quality care and support. The need for MPF’s respite care program has increased twenty-fold, providing $10,000 to families in 2018 to more than $283,000 and 13,885 hours to 176 families in 2024.  Over 13,500 individuals served through MPF exercise classes and 2,116 served through educational programs statewide. To date, we have been able to say “YES” to all that need our help with support from individuals like you.