An interview with Eddie & Shamille Thomas: A Journey of Strength, Love, and Parkinson’s Awareness
Biography
Our mother is a 69-year-old retired school bus driver who proudly served 16.5 years with the Marion County Public School Board and previously served 4.5 years in the U.S. Army from 1980–1984. She was always active, strong, and full of life, even racing students at the bus stop before her diagnosis. Our family has always been rooted in hard work, resilience, and love.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
Our advocacy is rooted in sharing our mother’s journey with Parkinson’s to bring awareness, education, and hope to others. We use our voices, experiences, and platforms to show the reality of caregiving while encouraging strength and unity within families. Our goal is to make sure no one feels alone in this journey.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
Our passion comes from watching our mother transition from full independence to needing daily support after her 2009 diagnosis. Experiencing this firsthand pushed us to become Registered Nurses to learn more, speak out, educate others, and advocate for better resources and a cure. It became bigger than us, it became a mission.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
Many individuals are inspired to maintain independence as long as possible, stay active, and remain hopeful. They also gain the confidence to speak openly about their condition. Most importantly, they see that they are not alone.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
Our advocacy is currently experience-based, built on years of caregiving, medical knowledge as a nurse, and real-life support. We are working toward developing structured programs and resources in the future. The goal is to create accessible education for both patients and caregivers.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
It can provide emotional support, encouragement, and a sense of community. Seeing others who understand their journey helps reduce isolation and fear. It also motivates them to keep pushing forward despite the diagnosis.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
We would love to expand our reach globally and create programs, support groups, and resources for families affected by Parkinson’s. Our long-term goal is to be part of initiatives that contribute to finding a cure. We also want to empower caregivers with better tools and education.
What events do you participate in?
We participate in awareness conversations, community outreach, and sharing our journey through social media and personal connections. Our presence is focused on impact and connection.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
It reassures caregivers that their feelings, struggles, and sacrifices are valid. We provide insight, encouragement, and real-life experiences that help them navigate daily challenges. It also reminds them to care for themselves while caring for others.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
Currently, individuals can reach us through our social media platforms and direct communication. Our goal is to devel a website to expand our outreach and to provide resources to make access easy and supportive. Tiktok: @EddieShamille
Facebook: Eddie Shamille
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Start by sharing stories, educating others, and supporting those affected by Parkinson’s. Advocacy begins with awareness and compassion. Even small actions can create a big impact.
If you could add any questions to this interview that you may want others to learn about, what would the question(s) be?
What does daily life truly look like for both the patient and the caregiver? How can communities better support families affected by Parkinson’s? What resources are still missing that could improve quality of life?
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Consistency, authenticity, and compassion are key. People connect with real stories and genuine experiences. Advocacy is most powerful when it comes from the heart.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
By increasing awareness, community involvement, and partnerships with organizations dedicated to research. Sharing personal stories helps people connect and want to contribute. Transparency and purpose also encourage continued support.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
We encourage movement, routine, and mental engagement to help maintain function and quality of life. We also explore natural remedies, nutrition, and supportive therapies when appropriate. Consistency in care plays a major role.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Because Parkinson’s can affect anyone, directly or through someone they love. Awareness leads to early detection, better support, and stronger communities. Caring creates change.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
Yes, our mother’s father (our grandfather) was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and she was diagnosed in 2009, and her journey has deeply impacted our entire family. It has shaped who we are and how we advocate today. Her strength continues to inspire us.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
“Unstoppable” by Sia, because it reflects strength, resilience, and pushing forward no matter the obstacles.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
“Parkinson’s may change the path, but it does not define the person, keep fighting, keep moving, and never lose hope.”
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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!