Donna Rajkovic

Donna Rajkovic was diagnosed with Early Onset Parkinson’s disease in 2012 after several years of unexplained symptoms and uncertainty. From the beginning, she believed that research holds the key to unlocking answers and changing the future of Parkinson’s disease. Determined to be part of that progress, she enrolled in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), a landmark research study of The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. She remains an active participant today and is proud to have contributed to the discovery of the alpha-synuclein biomarker — an important breakthrough transforming how Parkinson’s disease is detected and studied.

That same belief in the power of research inspired Donna to take action in her own community. In 2016, surrounded by family and friends, she launched Team Fox Detroit, bringing together advocates across Metro Detroit to raise awareness and support the mission of The Michael J. Fox Foundation. What began around her kitchen table quickly grew into a grassroots movement fueled by heart, faith, and determination, creating spaces where people affected by Parkinson’s can connect, learn, and support one another.

Donna’s Parkinson’s journey has also included two Deep Brain Stimulation surgeries — first in 2020 and a full revision in 2023. In 2024, she transitioned to adaptive DBS, a next-generation therapy designed to better manage symptom fluctuations and reduce side effects. These experiences strengthened her commitment to advancing patient-centered care and ensuring that the voices of people living with Parkinson’s help guide research and innovation.

Donna lives in Michigan with her husband Mike of more than 34 years, and their three sons remain her greatest source of strength and inspiration. She continues to advocate for research and patient voices, believing that when science and community come together, we move closer to a future where Parkinson’s is no longer part of anyone’s story.