An interview with Kelly McDonald, Photography + Parkinson’s
Biography
I’m a photo-based artist living in Ottawa, Canada, with my husband, John, our goldendoodle, Mingus, and my Mother. My practice focuses on botanicals at different stages of their life cycles, reflecting the changes Parkinson’s has brought to my life. I’ve exhibited my work in Toronto, Ottawa, and Barcelona. Outside of my art practice, I enjoy knitting and am an avid reader.
Please tell me a little about your background.
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 52 in the spring of 2021, just before beginning a two-year Photographic Arts and Production College program I had always dreamed of pursuing and had been accepted into. The diagnosis made me question whether I should go ahead with the program, but I knew it was a bucket-list dream I wanted to fulfill. I completed the program, and I haven’t looked back. I’m now represented by Wall Space Gallery in Ottawa.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
I use my photo-based art practice to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease. I explore transformation, impermanence, loss, and resilience—all integral to the Parkinson’s journey. Working with local botanicals at various stages of their life cycle, I create images that explore the tension between decay and renewal, fragility and resilience, and the ephemeral and the enduring. I wish to promote the idea that people consider that they may have Parkinson’s when a neurological issue arises. For the longest time, the medical professionals that I was seeing were adamant that I had Fibromyalgia. I knew this was incorrect and kept seeking answers to my health-related questions.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion is sharing my Parkinson’s journey through photography. Driven by hope for a cure, I joined the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) shortly after my diagnosis. Sponsored by The Michael J. Fox Foundation, PPMI is a longitudinal observational study focused on advancing our understanding of Parkinson’s disease..
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
I hope that someone living with Parkinson’s will feel less alone and know that we are travelling this road together. At the same time, I recognize that Parkinson’s affects everyone differently. For those who do not have Parkinson’s, I hope my work encourages greater awareness of the disease and the importance of seeking medical advice if symptoms arise. I experienced symptoms for years before receiving a formal diagnosis. I also want to show that Parkinson’s is about more than tremors; it can affect every aspect of a person’s life.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
I hope to connect with more people living with Parkinson’s through my artistic practice. I’m exploring ideas for a series of photographic projects that reflect different aspects of the Parkinson’s experience.
What events do you participate in?
I find it difficult to leave the house, especially in the afternoons. Twice a week, however, I attend boxing sessions for people with Parkinson’s. Not only does boxing help me physically, but being with others who share similar experiences also gives me a sense of hope and connection.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
My email address is kelly@kmphoto.ca, and my website is kmphoto.ca. I can be found on instagram also as @kelly_mcdonald_photographs.
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
I’m most comfortable raising awareness through my social media posts, and responding to those of others. And, whenever possible, I mention that I have Parkinson’s. I usually do this when I’m faced with an issue, such as when I’m asked to fill out a form. I’m not able to write anymore, so explain how Parkinson’s has robbed me of this. A conversation usually begins as a result. A person must feel comfortable in whatever method that they use to advocate for awareness.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
The key is sharing our experiences. This is especially true since Parkinson’s affects each of us differently. Through sharing, we build understanding, increase knowledge, and raise awareness.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
I knit to maintain my dexterity, and I read and do crossword puzzles to keep my brain active. When I can, I take the dog for short walks. I also attend boxing sessions, although some days I simply don’t have the energy to participate.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
The number of cases is on the increase, and anyone can get it at any stage of life. You may one day have Parkinson’s disease.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
My Father was diagnosed just before he died unexpectedly.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
Joni Mitchell – Both Sides Now
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
In surrender, we discover that letting go can become its own form of grace.
TogetherForSharon® In memory of my mother, Sharon to voice awareness & hope for a Parkinson’s Disease cure. Sharon’s Son, George
Support https://www.togetherforsharon.com/shop/
Would you like to share your journey! Reach out and together our Voices are so much STRONGER!