An interview with Traci Caldwell on Advocacy on on May 24, 2024.
Biography
I’m a 40 year old wife, mother and nana. I love my family and the outdoors. Life has its challenges but keeping the faith is what gets me through.
Please tell me a little about your background.
I’ve always been a goofball who loves to laugh. I grew up in a small town in Illinois. I’ve been married for 17 years and have 4 children and 1 grandson. I’m easy going but shy at first. I’ve been a stay at home until all the children were in school. When I went back to work, a year into it is when my life changed drastically and although I fought to keep working, I had to quit. My faith and family keep me going.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion is to make others laugh and not feel alone in their struggles. I got involved with Parkinson’s when I got my own diagnosis in August of 2019 at the age of 35. I wanted to meet others who could relate along with sharing my story. I started posting on Instagram and it was the best decision I have ever made!
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
Well, no one works for me, but I do know their goal is to find a cure and let their voice be heard.
What events do you participate in?
None but I want too so badly. I live in a small community where not much happens but a lose cow here and there lol just kidding…kinda lol.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
Anyone can reach out to me on Instagram.
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Just speak up and share. Don’t back down and don’t be afraid to share any experience you have or have had. Use your voice as it’s so important.
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Let your voice be heard and make a difference. Changing the way medical providers listen and treat those with Parkinson’s no matter the age or gender. Also changing the way people see PD and all the different symptoms it comes with. Bringing awareness to no two people with PD are alike.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
I think we are doing all we can but more commercials on Parkinson’s, more stories on the news. We got to get it out there and make it known to the world.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
I walk regularly and it has helped my symptoms tremendously. I think being active is what’s helping. Got to keep moving, movement is medicine!
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
It could be them one day, it could be their loved ones or a friend. It’s one of the fastest growing neurodegenerative diseases out there, they need to care for as their future depends on it.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
My dad’s aunt had Parkinson’s.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life which song, would it be?
Unstoppable by Sia
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Stay strong and speak up! Keep the faith and know you are never alone; we are here for you!