Kathy Anderson - Committee Member

Author Kate Bowler says -"life can be beautiful and terrible at the same time".

All of us have experienced the good, the bad and all things in between. My connection with the Parkinson’s community is as unique as anyone else’s story. In the year 2008, my husband of two years was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s disease. We had just started a family and were in the thick of raising a nine-month-old baby. Life was beautiful, then came Parkinson’s. When life thrusts you to a place of dread and uncertainty, you have two options: be bitter or be better. I chose the latter! That terrible diagnosis was seventeen years ago and many beautiful things have happened since.

I have become proactive in managing my husband’s care and have been his primary advocate. Together, we have raised our son to be resilient and aware that good things can and will happen in the midst of the worst circumstances. The Michael J. Fox Foundation has been awe-inspiring and hope-filled! Courageous and brave people have come our way and have given life a deeper significance and purpose. Team Fox Detroit is one such group of supportive, passionate and hardworking people. It is remarkable! (Thank you, Donna!) Walking in faith hand in hand with people who are going through the same challenges and struggles as you are is both uplifting and beautiful. It sure has helped me become better!!!

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