An interview with Cory Orosz RN Case Manager, Parkinson’s Advocate on June 23, 2024.
(Photo Cory and Dr. George Ackerman, 2024 Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Unity Walk, NYC Central Park)
Biography
I am from a small town in NYS and have moved around a bit. I initially went to college with no idea what to major in but landed on Psychology. While in route to my eventual BS in Psychology (no pun intended), I found the Ambulance which later led to me a summer term turned full time job and a degree in Nursing. Sixteen years later I am still a RN with a background in critical care, as well as a BS in Nursing and a minor in theatre.
Can you tell me more about your organization?
I do not have my own organization, though I am researching starting one. I am in full support of, donate to, and assist in raising money for multiple others.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
I have a passion for helping others when I can. I became involved in Parkinson’s when I first heard of one of my favorite childhood actors, Michael J Fox was diagnosed. Not long after I saw continuous posting on LinkedIn of a man who was passionate about aware after his mother had passed – I was hooked.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
Whie I cannot speak to their mental state, I try very hard to give them an increased quality of life, even for a short time.
What effect can it have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
If I have had any success, the individual may have a few brief moments of respite from their condition. Additionally, others will not shy away or simply stop and stare at people with the diagnosis. They won’t treat those with Parkinsons as a contagious, dangerous person.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your programs?
Much like any program, to increase the quality of life for the individual, and if they choose, to further spread awareness about the condition to promote learning and better understanding and support in the community.
What events do you participate in?
Fundraising through The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinsons, Charity walks, and I am constantly researching more and more to learn all I can.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Education is key. Additionally, I might be able to offer insight as to an alternate, more comfortable way to sit or lay down, alternate physical activities, and an alternate mind state for both caregiver and patient.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
I can be found on social media (Instagram: cory.w.orosz ; Linkedin: Cory Orosz
Or my e-mail is coryworosz@gmail.com
Additionally, my fundraising page is: https://give.michaeljfox.org/fundraiser/5360856?is_new=true
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Research online – there is a plethora of organizations
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Not giving up when you are not getting large numbers or even the numbers you expected or desire. Falling 66 times but getting up 67. Additionally, be sure to step back and take care of yourself from time to time.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Currently there are 101 charity organizations for virtually every diagnosis, condition, and interest. Simply continue to do what you are passionate about and introduce Parkinsons do that group. Discuss your other activities, if allowed. Educate.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
I try to eat healthy, exercise when I can, and look at the positive. I recognize when I am having a bad day, and I acknowledge it. I try to employ the 15-miute rule: I allow myself a total of 15 minutes to lament and b*tch about my day, then focus on the positives I have in my life.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
A strong mental state is HUGE!
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
I am an RN Case Manager – I am seeing an increase in the number of patients I see daily with Parkinsons. While my immediate family has not been diagnosed, and I do not qualify to undergo testing, I have had friends who have.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life which song would it be?
That is like asking me to choose one book or one movie, there are far too many – that simply depends on the day.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
You are Human – You are allowed to have bad days. You are not in this alone!!