My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease more than 20 years ago. Without question, Parkinson's disease is the fight of his life. As with others who live with PD, my husband is battling a relentless, remorseless, insidious thief. Parkinson's disease recognizes no titles, respects no achievements, nor bows to any amount of talent, courage or character. Parkinson's disease does not discriminate.
My husband was a fabulous athlete with all the skills and gifts that anyone could ever ask for, only to be afflicted with this disease. But we approach his condition like we do everything else. We refuse to sit back quietly and wait for things to happen. We are fighters. Always fighting for more.
As you know, Parkinson's disease affects more than just those who have the disease. As the wife, friend and confidant of someone with PD, I can tell you that our entire family, and our close friends, have been profoundly impacted as well. What is important to us is to never lose our faith and to never stop living each day to the fullest extent possible.
As I have learned, the fight against Parkinson's disease is a team effort that can only be effective when everyone is working together. While my husband is and always will be a fighter, everyone with Parkinson's disease needs someone in their corner. That's why the Fight for MORE campaign is so important.
Even though Parkinson's disease can be devastating for all involved, there is real hope for an improved quality of life through new treatments and medicines. A patient's Fight For MORE active hours is a fight they must engage in every day.
Parkinson's disease never stops trying to rob us of our dreams, so we must stay committed to the fight and embrace the ideals that are at the core of the Fight for MORE campaign. Through this endeavor, we have the opportunity to reach out and touch people in need and to positively affect their lives.
Keep up the fight!
Lonnie Ali
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