12/14/2025
2025 Year in Review
As I wrapped up my most recent appointment with my Movement Disorder Specialist, I found myself reflecting on just how much has happened along my Parkinson’s journey—and realized it was time for an update. As 2025 comes to a close, here is a year-in-review of what I’ve been up to, what I’ve learned, and what Parkinson’s and I have been negotiating together.
This year marked my two-year diagnosaversary on April 27, 2025, a milestone I didn’t exactly celebrate with cake, but one that does come with perspective. As expected, progression continues. At each ongoing check-in my MDS Neurologist, we work together as a team to review changes and adjust course as needed. It’s an ongoing process of fine-tuning, adapting, and occasionally reminding Parkinson’s who’s actually in charge.
One of the biggest changes this year was starting treatment with the Vyalev pump on May 14, 2025. Simply put, it has been a game- changer. The pump gave me back something Parkinson’s had slowly taken away, and for that I am incredibly grateful. With the help of my primary care physician, I’ve also worked through ways to make the pump as successful as possible, specifically by preventing cellulitis infections. Along the way, I even helped put together a “tips and tricks” guide for other Vyalev users, because if I’ve learned something the hard way, I might as well save someone else a few bumps.
Beyond treatment, advocacy, and volunteering remain a huge part of my life. I continue to serve on the Parkinson’s Foundation Southwest Chapter Board. For Moving Day 2025, I committed to raising $1,000, and with the help of family, friends, coworkers past and present, and my company, I managed to raise over $3,000. Turns out asking for help works, and people really do show up. I also remain active on the Parkinson’s Foundation Mission and Outreach Committee, where I connect with people living with PD and help provide education and resources.
This year also marked my second year participating in the Parkinson’s Foundation Grant Review process, including completing a second-level review. In September, I was invited to attend the Volunteer Leadership Summit, where I joined volunteers from across the country to learn, share ideas, and compare notes. One exciting result of that summit is an event I’m now organizing for August 2026, an indoor rock-climbing event in the Phoenix area in collaboration with Up ENDing Parkinson’s and the Parkinson’s Foundation. Yes, Parkinson’s and rock climbing in the same sentence because why not?
On the storytelling front, I shared my PD story with the Parkinson’s Foundation for publication online and was interviewed for Brain & Life Magazine in July. That article focused on wearable devices and how data can help guide smarter health decisions, something I find both fascinating and empowering.
Community remains essential. I attended a Young Onset Parkinson’s outing in Carefree, Arizona, hosted by the Young Onset Parkinson’s Network and PMD Alliance. About 80 people with Parkinson’s at various stages came together to share experiences, support, and what I like to call “tricks of the trade.” There’s nothing quite like learning from people who truly get it.
I also continued to participate in clinical research, including a six-month red light therapy study and a two-year clinical study with Rune Labs using the StrivePD app and Apple Watch to track dyskinesia. Science and I are getting pretty well acquainted at this point.
Physically, the year included two radio frequency ablation procedures on my lower back to address pinched nerves. I’m cautiously optimistic that this second round sticks. Movement remains one of the few things proven to slow Parkinson’s progression, so I continue with Rock Steady Boxing and personal training. The Peloton bike is still part of the plan, just on a brief hiatus while my back negotiates its terms.
I also remain involved with Parkinson’s Mentors AZ and participated in the Michael J. Fox Foundation Walk in December, representing PMAZ and connecting with patients, care partners, and anyone looking for resources or mentorship.
And yes, I continue to work full-time. This year marked my eight-year anniversary with my company, whose compassion, flexibility, and support have been nothing short of incredible as I navigate ongoing changes.
As I look ahead, I’m constantly reminded how fortunate I am to be surrounded by support from my company, friends (new and longtime), family (especially my mom), and the Parkinson’s community. When challenges arise, everyone adapted quickly to help me keep functioning and showing up fully. If 2025 taught me anything, it’s that change is the only constant. I’ve officially retired the phrase “Who Moved My Cheese?” and replaced it with “How do I tackle this next challenge with grace, adaptability, and a little humor?”
Here’s to whatever 2026 brings—preferably with movement, progress, and fewer surprises.
