Introduction

Receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be a life-altering event, and for one mother, it profoundly influenced her parenting journey. Diagnosed at just 28 years old, shortly after completing her family medicine residency and while expecting her first child, the news was understandably shocking.

Initial Diagnosis and Struggles

Initially, she experienced a tremor in her right pinkie finger—a symptom she tried to overlook until it escalated to a point of concern. After consulting a neurologist at her clinic, she received a confirmation of her fears: Parkinson’s disease. Denial clouded her thoughts for a significant time; the demands of motherhood—with the arrival of three children—and the process of building a new home only added to her reluctance to confront her new reality. During those early years, self-care took a backseat as she focused on caring for her family.

Acceptance and Growth

However, through deep introspection, she realized that denial would not change her situation. Accepting her diagnosis became paramount, especially if she wanted to be the best parent and partner to her family. She learned to redefine her role, understanding that being a good mother didn't mean doing everything perfectly. Instead, she focused on raising her daughters to be independent and resilient—a lesson she embraced not just for herself, but for her family as a whole.

Transition to Advocacy

For 12 years after her diagnosis, she continued practicing medicine, maintaining a level of professionalism that kept her condition a secret from most of her patients. However, as her symptoms progressed—manifesting as chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances—she made the difficult decision to retire early.

Upon stepping away from her medical career, her path took a dramatic turn. Drawn into advocacy, she attended a gala for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, where she finally connected with the Parkinson’s community. The experience was eye-opening and transformative, leading her to join the foundation's patient council. Her passion to raise awareness about PD only grew; she co-founded PD Avengers, launched a website called UnshakeableMD, and even authored a children's book titled *Shaky Hands*, written collaboratively with her daughters.

Current Endeavors

Currently, she is engaged in a significant project with the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health, working on the Accelerating Medicines Partnership in Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders. This initiative aims to identify new biomarkers to distinguish Parkinson's from other neurodegenerative diseases, ultimately seeking breakthroughs in early diagnosis, effective treatments, and specific therapeutic interventions.

Impact on Family

Her daughters, now aged 26, 23, and 19, have been positively influenced by their mother’s experiences with Parkinson’s disease. They have grown to embody charity and empathy, understanding that life will present challenges, but it is how they choose to confront these challenges that will shape their character.

Conclusion

This remarkable mother’s journey showcases that while Parkinson’s has undeniably posed difficulties for their family, it has not defined them. Instead, it has fostered a spirit of resilience, compassion, and advocacy that inspires others in similar situations. Her story is a testament to the strength of family bonds and the power of acceptance in the face of life’s toughest battles.