My dad and I always had a special bond, sharing a love of science, math, medicine, and, more importantly, meaningful human connection. My dad was a psychoanalyst who dedicated his life to understanding and easing the emotional suffering of others. His compassion shaped my own path—not only in medicine but later in founding the nonprofit Power for Parkinson’s.
My dad’s influence on my life and career has been deeply entwined, and with his diagnosis of Parkinson’s, I gained a whole new world of knowledge. For more than a decade, I observed his journey. I saw the benefits of physical and speech therapy and the consequences when those services stopped. This triggered my deep desire to resolve this roadblock.
Extensive research confirmed my belief that movement is medicine for Parkinson’s. I also discovered how few fitness resources there were for people with Parkinson’s, inspiring me to develop my own program. Thirteen years later, we serve a global community through YouTube and host in-person classes throughout Central Texas. What started as a way to help my dad has grown into a mission to empower thousands living with Parkinson’s.
Along the way, I’ve stayed committed to finding solutions that make life easier for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners. One of those meaningful discoveries was Maura Hornton’s company, MagnaReady, magnetic and stylish shirts. As my dad’s mobility declined, getting dressed became more challenging. I bought a few for him one Father’s Day and they were a game-changer. My dad could dress himself, just the way he liked with his plaid shirt tucked neatly into his khakis with less of a struggle.
So many thoughtful innovations like Power for Parkinson’s and Magnaready have been born from love and the deep desire to help. On Father’s Day, I remember my dad’s warmth, empathy, and unwavering drive to help others and I know he would be proud that his legacy lives on through Power for Parkinson’s.
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