In my role of co-host for a PD support group, I was invited to a volunteer appreciation luncheon put on by our regional Parkinson’s Resources organization. It was held at a local hotel and included a small resource fair. I was hesitant to go because I have only been working with the group for a few months and my husband wasn’t interested in attending with me. After speaking with my co-host, we decided to go together to see what was happening and I am so glad we did.

There were probably around 150 people at the event. We were seated at separate tables specifically so we could make new connections. At first I was a little nervous but I soon discovered that it was like walking into a room of long lost relatives. We all were connected through PD, either as a person with the disease or someone who loves them. I came with one friend and left with so many more I cannot count them all.

The day was full of acceptance, warmth and understanding. Our luncheon speaker was diagnosed with Parkinson’s five years ago and now leads an international advocacy program. I sat next to a couple who have been on this journey for 26 years and was so encouraged by their resilience as they continue their fight together. I came away humbled thinking of how little I actually do and yet empowered by the strength of this community. It may be a community I never wanted to join but it is also one I am so thankful for and proud to be a part of as we all work to end PD forever.

If you are looking for an opportunity for advocacy, check out PD Avengers.