My name is Nate Jolliff, and I am a US Marine Corps Veteran who served active duty from 1984 - 1988. I live in Oakland, Michigan with my loving wife Lisa and enjoy our children Luther (his wife Katherine), Sarah (wedding date 08.01.2026), and Zachary (his wife Lauren). In July 2021, at age 55, I was unexpectantly diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and my life changed forever.
Department of Veterans Affairs classifies me as 100% disabled due to my service-connected disabilities with PD acquired by contaminated drinking water while serving at US Marine Corp Base Camp Lejeune, NC.
Nevertheless, I am determined to live my best life with PD, and I want to give back to others suffering from this devastating disease. I was honored to join the Michigan Parkinson Foundation board of directors as a Veteran Advocate. In January 2024, we launched our first "Veterans with Parkinson's Support Group". I’m also a Mentor to those newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
PD is a progressive degenerative neurological disease that affects movement and worsens with age. It is the fastest growing neuro-degenerative disease in the world. Unfortunately, my symptoms post diagnosis are getting worse culminating in my having to discontinue professional work activity. PD affects individuals differently and has multiple symptoms. My symptoms include tremors of hands/legs/feet, muscle weakness, bradykinesia, impaired gait, my right foot often drags when I walk. I suffer from chronic and severe fatigue, balance issues, cognitive impairments including issues with concentration and attention, impaired short-term memory, anxiety/depression, dizziness, and insomnia.
Impact on me both personally and professionally has been dramatic. I often feel isolated and detached from family/friends; no longer working professionally. My treatment includes weekly physical therapy, speech therapy, intense daily exercises and “Rock Steady Boxing”. Exercise is the only thing known to slow down progression of PD, and this mindset fuels my daily intense workouts. There is no effective treatment (or cure). I sometimes forget that this can be harder for my family/friends to cope with than my physical deterioration.
It is so important that we ensure continued momentum in the PD community. The time is now for action! Thank you for your generous donations and your continued commitment to improving the lives of those affected by Parkinson's Disease.