As Team Fox member Pamela Fioretti prepares for her family’s Fourth Annual Moving for a Cure fundraiser this Saturday, she reflects on her mother's Parkinson's disease diagnosis and inspiring outlook:
Almost four years ago, my mother came to visit me while I was finishing my graduate physical therapy program. Thinking she might have a "crick in her neck" that was making a few fingers in her hand get "stuck" sometimes, she asked me to check it out. I found nothing immediately that struck me but thought she should see her doctor. A few weeks later, my brother called me. My mother had met with a neurologist and learned that she had Parkinson’s. Her diagnosis hit me like a brick wall, but when I spoke with her, she was unwavering. Her view was that she could have been diagnosed with something much worse. And that is how she set the tone to take on PD.
Since her diagnosis, Mom has increasingly maintained her exercise routine, physical therapy and consistency with her medical support. I cannot help but brag about her achievements. Who else can say their mom actively water skis, keeps up in a spin class or travels to five countries over the course of eight weeks? My mother’s strength over the years inspired me to figure out a way to display my support. I am so proud of her.
I began "Moving for a Cure" four years ago. I am delighted to say that since that time we have raised over $35,000 for Parkinson’s research. Last year was our largest grossing year, with $16,000 raised, and my family is ecstatic to keep it growing.
Moving for a Cure will be held on Saturday, October 25, from 3-7 pm at Lucy's Lounge in Pleasantville, NY. The entrance fee is $25 and there will be drink specials, raffles, merchandise for sale and complimentary food.
For more information, please visit the Moving for a Cure Facebook Page. Donations can also be made directly to the Moving for a Cure Team Fox Page.