Aloha family and friends!

Another year on the books since I started down this Parkinson’s journey in 2015. I recently learned that I am just one of the million+ people diagnosed with PD in the US today and that 50,000 to 60,000 new cases are being diagnosed in the US every year! Those are staggering numbers for a disease that progresses at unpredictable rates and knows no cure.

 PD is a long-term, degenerative neurological disease that mainly affects the motor system (hence, movement disorder). Its symptoms include tremors, rigidity, difficulty with walking and balance. As the disease progresses, non-motor symptoms like sleep disorder, constipation, muscle spasms and cognitive impairment become more common. The progression is unpredictable and symptoms impact each of us differently. Currently, the only options for fighting the disease are vigorous exercise, medications and invasive brain surgery. It is truly a life-changing event for anyone who receives this grim diagnosis.

This year, I witnessed first hand the devastating consequences of this disease when I lost my friend and fellow Rock Steady Boxing Fighter, “Gator”. Gator fought this disease like the devil and he was an inspiration to all of us in the Parkinson’s community. I will miss his good humor and positive attitude. So this year, I am walking to celebrate the memory of my friend and fellow fighter, Gator. 

Please join me in my fight against PD, to find a cure and to improve the quality of life of those of us living with PD, either as a person with PD or as a caretaker. Click on the buttons on the right-hand side of this page to join my team on Moving Day and make a donation to fund the research efforts of the Parkinson’s Foundation, all in memory of my friend, Gator.

Debra “Aloha” Flynn

#KeepOnMovin!