Just over four years ago, at the age of 54, Lauren Simmons heard the words no one wants to hear, “You have young onset Parkinson’s Disease.” She left the doctor’s office in tears with a prescription for some medication and no hope. She didn’t know where to turn for help. Even though she has a great support system of family and friends, they didn’t have Parkinson’s. It was very isolating. While she spent her time crying and praying, her husband found Rock Steady Boxing online. That was the day that changed her outlook on Parkinson’s because she met and talked to other people who were going through the same thing. 

With the help of some friends with Parkinson’s, PD Buzz has been live for two years. We are reaching hundreds of people with Parkinson’s in Orange County each month and recently expanded to Springfield, Illinois. The Springfield community needed the same thing that was needed in Orange County – a place to get resources to people with Parkinson’s as soon as possible. COVID has made the situation that much more urgent. Those who are diagnosed during this time have the added burden of not having the chance to attend in-person classes and groups. We are reaching out and letting them know what is available to them virtually to get started on their journey to living well with Parkinson’s, today.

Unfortunately, more and more people are being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and unfortunately, we hear similar stories around the country. People are being diagnosed and not given any guidance for the next steps. We want to be beside them on those next steps because no one should have to walk that road alone.