Today's Team Fox New Member Moment shines a spotlight on first time fundraiser Jennifer Traver and Team Shakin’ Not Stirred, who hosted their first Bowling for a Cure and raised nearly $9,500 for Team Fox in March. We took a few minutes to catch up with Jennifer — the captain of Team Shakin’ Not Stirred — to hear how everything went and to learn about her inspiration for getting involved with Team Fox:

At the age of 42, I was diagnosed with Young-onset Parkinson's disease. My diagnosis came as a complete shock to my family and me. I've tried to accept the diagnosis handed to me. While my future is scary for me to think about, I decided the one thing I can't focus on is what may or may not be in store for me and all of my fellow "Parky" patients. Instead, I decided to focus on what I can control and that is to try and help make a difference through Team Fox.

Going through the process of organizing my first fundraiser for Team Fox, my Team “Shakin' Not Stirred” and I were able not only host our first “Bowling for a Cure,” but in addition we even organized a silent auction, 50/50 raffles and a bake sale. We had a sold-out bowling event and we were AMAZED at the support from the community.  

I have realized my role in this disease through Team Fox and it has given me my purpose to get involved — which is not only to accept my diagnosis, but also a coping mechanism for me. It gives me great hope for myself, everyone afflicted with Parkinson’s and their families that we will find a cure!

So what’s next for Team Shakin’ Not Stirred? Jennifer explains that her team is already revved up and ready to host another Team Fox event this August – but this time they’ll be on the golf course. We love the sound of that. #GoTeamFox

Interested in hosting an event in your community and fundraising in support of Parkinson's research? Join Team Fox today.