Editor's note: Lucy Fox is the mother of Sam Fox, a MJFF staffer who is embarking on Tour de Fox to rally the PD community and fund research. Lucy's diagnosis was Sam's initial inspiration.

When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s more than 15 years ago, I had a lot of questions, and as a mother of three and wife of one, I wondered about the effect it would have on my family. I knew there would be changes and unforeseen difficulties, but what I didn’t know is that over time, it would inspire my son Sam to start a movement to bring together the PD community – and to raise $1 million for Parkinson’s research.

Starting in 2011, Sam decided to take his physical gifts as an athlete and use them to raise awareness and funds for research. To date, his athletic feats have raised more than $470,000 for The Michael J. Fox Foundation. Starting June 2, he’s taking it even further with Tour de Fox. He’ll bike and hike his way through all 48 of the continental United States — stopping to climb the highest peak in each along the way. His goal is to raise $1 million for the Foundation’s global Parkinson’s research efforts.

At this point I’m pretty used to Sam’s adventures, so I wasn’t all that surprised by his plan, but that won’t stop me from worrying about him out there on the road. Of course I want to make sure he brings enough sunscreen, that he wears a lot of reflective clothing on his bike, and that he takes all necessary precautions on some of his more dangerous mountain climbs. But the proud mom in me likes to see him push himself, continue to explore the outdoors which he loves so much, and succeed in uniting the PD community.

Though it is probably his Dad who inspired Sam’s love of the mountains, I’m proud to say he credits me for the work ethic and drive that he’ll call on during his journey. But the truth is, this adventure is not just about us. It is also about  all those living with Parkinson’s and their families and friends, all of whom will help keep Sam moving for three months and 14,000 miles. 

The funds Tour de Fox raises will make a real difference in accelerating research to develop better therapies and one day, a cure for PD. Right now they can make twice the difference:  Thanks to a generous MJFF board member, for a limited time every dollar donated will be matched.

Perhaps what I find most inspiring about Tour de Fox is that it shows the power of working together. This journey gives those who have been touched by Parkinson’s or who are passionate about a cure an opportunity to take action alongside my son, either by joining Sam along the route or by donating to help reach that $1 million goal.

Sam hasn’t yet stepped foot on the Tour but I have already seen how this movement is bringing people together. It is certainly making this journey a very poignant and hopeful one for me. Please support Tour de Fox for all the moms, families and friends whose lives are affected by Parkinson's disease.