Margie's Movement at the Parkinson's Unity Walk.
Margie Alley didn’t wait long after her Parkinson’s diagnosis to take action. Diagnosed in March 2012 at age 48, she was back on her feet just one month later, forming a team for the Parkinson’s Unity Walk alongside her family and her daughter’s friends to celebrate her daughter’s 16th birthday. The team, fittingly named 16 for Margie, marked both a milestone birthday and Margie’s first step into Parkinson’s fundraising — and into a community that would shape the years ahead.
What began as a small group of close friends and family steadily grew, with Margie serving as team captain throughout. As the team evolved, so did its name, transitioning from 16 for Margie to Ping Pong Parkinson (3P) and eventually Margie’s Movement. With over 13 years of Unity Walk participation, Margie’s team has raised more than $150,000 for research.
“I love the spirit of the event,” said Margie. “To see the sea of people who know PD, live it, get it and want to support a family member or friend is inspiring.”
With the ongoing support of her community, Margie became increasingly open about sharing her Parkinson’s journey. Alongside friends, she filmed a short documentary titled Gotta Keep Moving, which was featured at the 2023 World Parkinson Congress. She has since competed in Parkinson’s World Table Tennis Championships across the U.S. and internationally, earning gold, silver and bronze medals. In recent years, Margie has designed calendars inspired by her mother’s life as a florist, donating the proceeds to The Michael J. Fox Foundation.
