An interview with Amanda Carluccio: Strength Through Family: My Mom’s Parkinson’s Journey
Biography
Amanda Carluccio is a content creator from New Jersey who shares family-centered content with the mission of bringing joy and connection to others. Her parents play a central role in her work, and her mom’s journey with Parkinson’s has profoundly influenced both who Amanda is and the purpose behind the content she creates.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
My advocacy is rooted in sharing real, human stories — specifically, my mom’s journey with Parkinson’s. By speaking openly about her experience and what it’s like for our family, I hope to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind others that they’re not alone in this battle! My mom keeps her spirits high and is always making others laugh and that’s what truly makes me happy.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion has always been connecting with people—bringing laughter, joy, and a sense of being truly seen. When my mom was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2017, I felt called to share her story online as a way to turn something difficult into something meaningful. I don’t post about her journey often, but I’ve featured her on my podcast and dedicated an entire episode to living with Parkinson’s through her perspective. I believe it’s important to share her journey—not only to raise awareness, but also to offer support for someone who might be going through the same thing.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
I think the biggest goal individuals are looking for is hope and a sense of community. My mom now attends Boxing for Parkinson’s every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, where she connects with others who share her diagnosis. These classes not only help her stay active but also remind her that she’s not alone. It’s so important that she feels less isolated and more empowered to continue living her life fully, despite the challenges of Parkinson’s.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
While I do not run official programs, I see advocacy as being an empath while also educating myself and sharing with others my mom’s journey (with her permission, of course!). Every post or conversation I share about her journey is part of creating awareness and support.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
I hope it brings comfort — knowing they’re not facing this alone. Sometimes hearing about another family’s journey makes people feel stronger and less fearful.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
If you’d like to connect or have any questions, feel free to send me a DM on Instagram (@amanda_carluccio) or reach out via email at amandajeansblog@gmail.com.
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Start by sharing your story — even if it’s just with one person. Advocacy isn’t always about big events; sometimes, it’s simply opening a conversation and educating others. 😊
What’s one thing you wish people understood better about living with Parkinson’s?
I asked my mom this question, since she’s the one navigating this disease, and this is what she said:
Parkinson’s is something you can live with for a long time if you take care of yourself. Move your body, eat well, and get the rest you need. Don’t abandon your daily routine just because you received a diagnosis. Keep living your life, and simply add in consistent exercise like Rock Steady Boxing.
When your family hears you have Parkinson’s, they’ll want to take over everything. Let them know you appreciate their love, but you’re still capable. And when the day comes that you do need more help, you’ll ask.
For those dealing with tremors, consider Botox injections. They truly can make a difference.
Parkinson’s is something you’ll carry until there’s a cure, but it does not mean you stop living. Keep going. Keep choosing life every single day. – Loretta Carluccio
How has Parkinson’s taught you or your family resilience in unexpected ways?
It’s really reshaped how we handle challenges as a family. We’ve learned to be flexible, patient, and supportive in ways we never expected. If my mom isn’t feeling well and doesn’t want to film a TikTok that day, we adjust and pick another time without any pressure. We always try to stay positive, and my mom somehow manages to keep a smile on her face through it all. She’s the best!
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Authenticity – basically just speaking from your heart and sharing your real experience with others.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
To be honest, I haven’t had the chance to participate in any Parkinson’s fundraising events yet, but I’d love for my family, my mom, and I to get more involved in the future.😊
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living?
Keep moving! I can’t stress enough how important that is—both for the body and the mind. Staying active and maintaining positive energy makes such a difference. As I mentioned earlier, my mom attends Boxing for Parkinson’s every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and it has helped her tremendously—not just physically, but also through the supportive community she’s found there. I won’t lie – she’s actually pretty good at it. lol
___________________________________________________________
TogetherForSharon® In memory of my mother, Sharon to voice awareness & hope for a Parkinson’s Disease cure. Sharon’s Son, George