2025 Knock It Out of the Parkie Softball Fundraiser - Seattle

Knock It Out of the Parkie began as a softball game fundraiser envisioned by Ashlei McCormick and her family, the MacKenzie Family to honor their father, Fred MacKenzie, who is living with Parkinson’s disease.

The American Parkinson Disease Association Northwest Chapter teamed up with the MacKenzie Family to launch this special event, which has grown into a broader community celebration recognizing others impacted by Parkinson’s, including longtime softball player and team captain Gerry Smith.

Softball runs deep in the MacKenzie family. Fred is the proud father of seven daughters, each supporting him in their own unique way. Their mom, Fred’s high school sweetheart, is never far from the sidelines, cheering the loudest. Fred, lovingly known as “Coach,” led two of his daughters and their team to become Kirkland Little League champions, ultimately reaching the Little League World Series.

Today, the Mackenzies are bringing that same passion and team spirit to the field to raise awareness and support for the Parkinson’s community. Fred recently wrapped up over 30 years running his own landscaping business. As he begins a new chapter, this fundraiser is the family’s way of honoring all he’s given to them and giving back. His youngest daughter, Ashlei McCormick, who has been the creative and visionary force behind this event, will captain the MacKenzie family’s Blue Team.

We’re also proud to recognize Gerry Smith, captain of the Green Team, whose support has been instrumental to the event’s success. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s eight years ago, Gerry left the doctor’s office that day knowing one thing for sure: he was still the same person he had always been. Since then, he’s made movement a daily priority—whether walking three miles, attending Rock Steady Boxing classes, or playing in senior softball leagues. At age 77, his story is a testament to the power of living well with Parkinson’s and to the strength we find when we rally together for a cause.

Ashlei and Gerry’s shared passion for fitness, community, and optimism has helped shape this inaugural event into something truly special.

Join the MacKenzie Family, Gerry Smith, and APDA for a day of softball, connection, and impact. Together, we can hit it out of the park for Parkinson’s.