When Melissa was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2023 at the age of 49, she was facing not only an unexpected medical diagnosis but also the challenge of processing what it meant for her and her family. As a mother of three teenagers, she found herself grappling with difficult questions about the future and how to manage the disease while continuing to care for her loved ones.
“As is probably the case with most newly diagnosed Parkinson’s patients, I was overwhelmed and needed time to process the reality of what this meant for my family and me,” Melissa shared. “I struggled, not only to accept the diagnosis, but with how I was going to manage the disease as the mother of three teenagers.”
Melissa’s neurologist encouraged her to explore the resources available through the Parkinson’s Foundation. That suggestion became a turning point. “On the Foundation’s website, I found so many helpful resources that gave me knowledge, support, and confidence that I could live well with this disease,” she said. “I was amazed by the number of Parkinson’s patients, caregivers, and medical professionals who were passionately trying to help. It is an amazing community for which I am so grateful, and I knew that I wanted to eventually contribute in some way.”
That opportunity came when Melissa received an email about Moving Day Atlanta. “About a month or so ago, I received an email from the Foundation about Moving Day and knew I was ready to take part in some way,” she recalled. “I quickly forwarded the email to my husband and told him that I was ready to start giving back, and I thought that Moving Day was a good place to start. He agreed, we put together a team and reached out to our friends and family. We have been blown away by the generosity and support!”
Melissa and her team, Mel’s Movers, are now part of a powerful community of individuals and families moving together to make a difference. “Moving Day has given me a way to give back and be a part of the fight against this disease,” she said. “I am truly grateful to participate.”
Through her courage and willingness to share her story, Melissa reminds us all why Moving Day matters, it’s not just about walking; it’s about coming together to celebrate strength, community, and hope.
