To anyone who has a father or father figure in their life who is facing a movement disorder, PMD Alliance Board Member Jacie Dunford shares her family’s experience with PD in honor of Father’s Day.
I have spent all of my adult life watching my dad face his journey with Parkinson’s. I was 17 years old when he was diagnosed in 2008. My two older siblings were in their early twenties and my two younger siblings were 14 and 8.
I wish people could see just how all-encompassing the effects of Parkinson’s and other movement disorders are on the lives of those who have them as well as their families. It is a day in, day out fight to determine the best course of treatment and how to live well in spite of the illness.
Becoming involved with PMD Alliance has been really impactful for me as an adult child of someone with a movement disorder. I was first introduced to the organization in 2017. The first PMD Alliance conference for adult children that I attended was wonderful. It shed light on topics that we hadn’t yet discussed as a family. In 2020, I became a Board member of PMD Alliance because I believe so much in their approach to helping people with movement disorders.
What makes PMD Alliance so unique is they take the whole Ecosystem into account.
Everyone involved in the life of a person with Parkinson’s is affected and they do a great job of reaching each person to shed light, knowledge, and positivity through truly robust resources. I am so grateful for PMD Alliance and how in tune they are with the complete world of a person with Parkinson’s and their loved ones and care team.
My dad is my hero! He doesn’t let this disease define him. He has showed how grit and courage can help one overcome any challenge they are faced with. I have learned so much from him and am grateful for his desire to bless others through his experience.
I love you, Dad! Thanks for showing our family and the world how to thrive and stay positive through challenges!
Jacie Dunford Adult Child of Person with Parkinson's and PMD Alliance Board Member