On February 2nd of this year, I finally got an answer to the cause of the odd symptoms I had been experiencing for some time. The answer - Parkinson's Disease. While that may sound bad, I don't see it that way. Now I know why my hand and arm tremor, why my shoulders hurt and why the other odd things were happening. Having an answer makes it much easier to deal with. Besides that, it makes me eligible to go on tour with Ozzy and Neil Diamond - I think that would make for a very ecclectic evening? 

I take my medicine, sleep regularly, and get my exercise. The Neurologist says those are the keys to slow the progression of my symptoms. I've got a long way to go so we don't need them accelerating! The exercise piece is a fun part of the program. It's literally a fight. We found a program called Rock Steady Boxing that was developed for patients with PD. Don't worry - no sparring. The program is both a physical and mental workout to build the body up in the fight against PD. This October I will be walking with my classmates, our Coach, and my family in the Moving Day fundraiser in Chicago. 

So this is Round 1 - the first year in my fight against PD. Please consider donating to this event as funding is the key to finding a cure while also providing support and resources to those impacted by the disease. Any amount is appreciated or even consider coming out and walking with us - we would love to see you! Help us knock out PD!!

 I have joined the fight to beat Parkinson's by participating in Moving Day Chicago, benefiting the Parkinson's Foundation. Did you know that someone is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease every 6 minutes in the United States? No one should have to face Parkinson's alone. That is why the Parkinson's Foundation provides a community of support to give people the resources and help they need to live well with Parkinson's.

Please make a donation today! Your gift will support the Parkinson's Foundation mission to improve care and advance research toward a cure.

Thank you for joining the fight against Parkinson's!