Hi, my name is Amy and I have Young-Onset Parkinson's disease. I was diagnosed in 2018 at age 42 after having symptoms for over a year. It started as a tremor in my right hand and fingers while holding my cell phone. Thinking it was just nerve damage, I went to a neurologist and after some brain imaging was told, "You have Parkinson's." What?! How?! I'm too young! Nobody in my family has it!

After the shock and sadness, I finally came to terms and accepted my diagnosis. With medication, most days are good days. Parkinson's is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that can cause tremors, slowness of movement, stiffness, pain, anxiety, depression, loss of smell, digestive problems, and a host of other issues. And everyone with Parkinson's is affected differently.

In 2023, I participated in a genetic study where it was discovered that I have two recessive variants/mutations in my PRKN gene, which is likely the cause of my PD. It is because of organizations like the Parkinson's Foundation that made this testing available to me and others. They are also responsible for raising money for Parkinson's treatment and research. 

I'm not alone. Many of you may know a friend or family member that has Parkinson's. There are more than one million Americans with Parkinson's and I hope you'll join me as part in moving to beat Parkinson's disease!

I've joined Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson's, to honor people living with Parkinson's, those who love them and those that are working to end this disease.

Every dollar we raise goes a long way in helping the Parkinson's Foundation fulfill its mission of improving the lives of those with Parkinson's. Please support me in this fight by making a donation. Your generosity will help raise awareness, more funding and more understanding of a disease that affects so many of our family and friends.

Together, let's make a life-changing difference! 

Thank you!