LEGO has been in my life for a long time. But when I was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s at 41, I did not realize how much it helped—not only mentally, but with fine motor skills as well. It is also my way to find zen (well, most of the time—anyone who builds knows that).

I’m now 47, and LEGO is a big part of my world. I also love Rock Steady Boxing—my exercise of choice. These things keep me going. Advocating is huge to me; I love bringing my builds and boxing videos to educate people on how these things help with Parkinson’s. I also share videos of the symptoms I experience.

Now my doctors think I may have had Parkinson’s for a long time, but lupus was hiding some of the early symptoms. I would love it if more people understood how much this disease affects our daily lives. Please follow me for more: @lego_builder_with_parkinsons.