People You Notice #5
She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 38,
With twin boys and a demanding medical practice,
Her debilitating symptoms progressed along with her drive.
She has now raised over a million dollars for research,
And become a beacon of hope for others…anyway.
He shares his story transparently,
Having been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in his 50’s,
With three master’s degrees and a doctorate, his mind was sharp,
But now that same mind wrestles with a pernicious disease,
And still, he volunteers and supports others as best he can…anyway.
He entered the world of Parkinson’s at 41,
And just to make things interesting, added on MS a few years later,
Still working, teaching, thinking, and prodding better thought in others.
He formed a nonprofit to raise money through challenging bike rides,
To inspire and enable hope…anyway.
No matter what the condition,
People take courage and take action,
Even though their doubts and pains persist,
Their determination, faith, and love keeps shining,
And the brave make life better for others…anyway.
Worth Repeating
Being brave isn’t the absence of fear. Being brave is having that fear but finding a way through it.
Bear Grylls
Ways to Give
If you would like to support any of the groups or individuals mentioned above, here’s how:
1. Nicole Jarvis, MD, Parkinson’s Research Foundation is based in Norman, OK.
2. Alzheimer’s Association is based out of Chicago with chapters all over the country. Dr. Ron Grant is just one inspiring patient volunteer.
3. Ride4PD is led by my brother-n-law, Steve Martin, out of Fort Collins, CO.
