An interview with Asli Beyza Gul: Driven by Passion, A Journey to Transform Parkinson’s on August 18, 2024.
Biography
As an aspiring physician, I shadowed numerous clinics in Dubai. Among them, the neurology clinic left a lasting impression on me. It was here that I realized the tremendous and often sad consequences of Parkinson’s. I was struck by the stories of relatively young patients, many in their early 50s, whose lives were dramatically altered by this devastating condition.
These people, who had spent decades creating their jobs and supporting their families, had their lives turned upside down by Parkinson’s. Within six months of their diagnosis, the majority had lost their jobs due to the disease’s devastating symptoms. Parkinson’s disease did not simply impair their physical abilities; it also robbed them of their identities, sense of purpose, and the joy they formerly enjoyed in their jobs and daily lives.
I had always thought Parkinson’s was a disease that predominantly affected the elderly. Witnessing its enormous influence on active, vibrant persons shattered my misconceptions and prompted me to dedicate my studies and future profession to this cause. I realized that Parkinson’s doesn’t just affect the individual; it ripples through families and communities, creating a cascade of challenges that must be addressed.
My objective is clear: no one should have to abandon their passions or lose their sense of purpose due to this disease. I am committed to working on solutions that will allow Parkinson’s patients to continue living happy lives, contributing to their families, and participating in their communities. I am working to put people back on track. This is more than a professional goal; it is a personal commitment to making a significant difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s.
Please tell me a little about your background.
I am a young researcher and medical student at Aston University, UK. I aim to become a neurologist and make a difference in the movement disorder management, especially Parkinson’s Disease.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
My advocacy is centered around raising awareness and advancing research in Parkinson’s, particularly through my role at Parkinson’s UK. I actively engage in promoting the latest developments in Parkinson’s via my newsletter, Parkinson’s Care and by speaking at international conferences. My goal is to contribute as much as possible to the field of neurology.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
While shadowing a neurology clinic in Dubai, I witnessed the devastating impact Parkinson’s had on vibrant young individuals, shattering their identities, livelihoods, and sense of purpose within months of diagnosis. This experience transformed my understanding of Parkinson’s and fueled my commitment to finding solutions that allow patients to continue living fulfilling lives. My mission is to ensure no one loses their passion or sense of purpose due to this disease.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
I believe my network looks to stay informed about the latest developments in Parkinson’s disease, and I regularly share these updates through my newsletter and my posts.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
I am currently in my second year of a five-year medical program. Upon completion, I plan to specialize in neurology with a focus on Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders. My long-term goal is to become a seasoned neurologist, dedicated to advancing care and research in this field.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
By sharing the latest developments in Parkinson’s disease, I strive to keep my network informed and up to date with essential updates. This approach helps to alleviate the potential overwhelm that can arise from the extensive and complex information associated with this condition. My goal is to ensure that valuable insights are accessible and actionable for those engaged in Parkinson’s care and research.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
I hope to benefit as many people as I can.
What events do you participate in?
I had the privilege of presenting my research on deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s patients at the 2nd European Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Congress in London earlier this year. In the coming year, I plan to attend Par-Con, a specialty conference hosted by Parkinson’s UK, to discuss the latest developments in Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, I will be presenting on the latest technological advancements in Parkinson’s care at two conferences, one in Tokyo, Japan, and the other in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
It is a great way to reach as many people as I can to keep them updated on the latest Parkinson’s updates.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
I am always eager to connect with others. You can reach me through my website at www.aslibeyzagul.com
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
To become advocates, others can start by educating themselves about the cause they’re passionate about and actively sharing reliable information with their network. Volunteering with relevant organizations and engaging in community events also helps to raise awareness. Consistently staying informed and involved will strengthen their advocacy efforts and impact.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
The key to great advocacy is a deep commitment to the cause alongside good communication and passion.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
I think it all relies on transparency and honesty about the challenges. It’s crucial to communicate the true impact of Parkinson’s—not just on individuals, but on families, communities, and society as a whole. While it may seem like a disease that affects only one person at a time, Parkinson’s creates ripples that touch us all, making it our collective responsibility to strive for better solutions. By embracing this shared responsibility, we can rally more support and drive meaningful progress toward finding a cure.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
I love music so much, and listening to it helps me to relax. Alongside music, I love to take walks outside.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Everyone should care because this disease doesn’t just impact those diagnosed—it disrupts families, communities, and workplaces. When vibrant, contributing members of society are forced to abandon their passions and careers due to Parkinson’s, it creates a ripple effect that touches everyone around them. By caring about Parkinson’s, we work together to preserve the well-being, productivity, and happiness of entire communities, ensuring that no one has to face the devastating consequences of this disease alone.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
I’ve been fortunate enough not to have any relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
Oh this is a hard one, I love music too much! I am a huge classical music fan so I will have to say Turkish March by Mozart. That song is the first song I mastered on the piano and it means a lot to me.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
I am committed to make sure that Parkinson’s does not take away the joy, purpose or passion from those it touches. Together, we can work to put everyone back on track.