I need YOUR help!
Thank you for visiting my Fundraising Page for the APDA Optimism Walk.
I’m walking to make a difference for the Parkinson’s disease (PD) community, and I’d love your support. Every six minutes, someone is diagnosed with PD. The funds we raise will help the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) provide:
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Local education, information, and support for people impacted by PD
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Nationwide virtual programs to keep everyone connected, no matter where they live
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Scientific research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and ultimately a cure
The more we raise, the more lives we can touch. Your donation truly matters.
It’s quick and easy to give - click the "Support Me" or "Donate Now" button. You’ll receive an automatic confirmation email, and I’ll be notified right away so I can thank you personally.
Any amount you give will bring us one step closer to better treatments, more support, and hope for the future.
Thank you for your generosity. Together, we’re making a real difference.
My Story
In 2017, I noticed something was not right. My right hand felt stiff when typing, and I had a slight limp when I walked. Typing was essential in my role, so I knew something was off.
After several doctor visits, I saw a neurologist. Her response caught me off guard. She suspected Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s? I did not see that coming.
She told me to take medication and said that if my symptoms improved, it would confirm the diagnosis. They did.
A DaTSCAN later confirmed it. A DaTSCAN is a brain imaging test that shows how well dopamine producing cells are working.
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition where the brain loses its ability to produce dopamine. It can cause tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and balance issues. These are things I now manage every day.
In 2024, I had deep brain stimulation surgery. This procedure places electrodes in specific areas of the brain to help regulate abnormal signals. It is not a cure, but it has helped reduce my symptoms and improve my quality of life.
Today, I am doing well. Life may not look like what I expected, but it is still good. It is just different.
I am participating in the APDA Optimism Walk to support the Parkinson’s community. If you are able to donate, I would truly appreciate it. Your support helps fund research, resources, and hope for people like me.