Thriving with Parkinson’s Disease, Fri Sept 19, 2:00–2:30pm PDT

In 2018, just before turning 57, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD). That diagnosis changed my life — for the better.

There is no cure for Parkinson’s. But there is hope. Vigorous exercise has been clinically proven to slow its progression. I embraced that treatment immediately upon my diagnosis. It has served me extremely well.

I chose running as my go-to therapy. I ran my first marathon at age 58. Ever since, I have enjoyed a steady stream of running adventures and achievements. I have met some extraordinary people, many of whom face challenges far beyond mine.

I have written about my adventures on my Medium blog and in my first book. I speak to groups about my experiences. When approached by individuals newly diagnosed with PD, I am eager to share what I have learned in hopes that they will benefit from my approach.

I have been told that I have inspired more people than I know about.

The folks at Medium appreciate my perspective. Hence, they selected me as a speaker at Medium Day 2025. My session, “Thriving with Parkinson’s disease,” is on Friday, September 19 at 2:00 to 2:30 pm PDT. I would be thrilled to have you with me during this session. Registration and details can be found at www.mediumday.com. Clicking on “Join Lobby” will take you to a page that allows you to search through all the sessions.

This year’s theme is “Just Start Writing.” The theme resonates with me. Parkinson’s disease pushed me into writing. For a primer, here is a link to my first blog post on Medium.

You are living the story now, write it down.

Everybody faces challenges. Embrace them and turn them into adventures through your writing. Your perspective can be a comfort to others learning to cope with similar situations.

Your challenge, and how you have managed it, can inspire others to thrive. Write it down.

Medium Day is a free, day-long virtual writing festival that brings together writers of all backgrounds for a celebration of creativity and connection dedicated to the act of “just writing it.”