It has been said, “if you have seen one person with Parkinson’s, you have seen just one person with Parkinson’s.” The Parkinson’s community is diverse, presenting an opportunity to learn about the diversity of how each of us, physically and mentally exhibit Parkinson’s. Over the last 13 years of knowing I have Parkinson’s I have come to realize the power of being an active member of the Parkinson’s community. It has sped my education of the disease, it has taught me creative, non-pharmacological ways to deal with symptoms. It has spurred me to encourage and help others. Drive Toward a Cure is a key part of my community, I’ve been inspired by others I’ve met through the common interest of cars.

You help yourself when you are in community with others and you learn faster. What community do you need to be more active in?

I have Parkinson’s, it doesn’t have me,

Derek