George’s Journey. More on Sharon’s son
I wanted to honor my mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s cause and did not know how to bring change. With my family, we decided to create a wristband, purple in color for Parkinson’s awareness, and with the design stating, “In memory of Sharon Riff Ackerman,” “Parkinson’s Disease Awareness”, “TogetherForSharon®”.
Sharon Riff Ackerman is my mother and my best friend…
I did not plan for her funeral to come so sudden and was sick over the whole nightmare my mother suffered through the final 7 months of her life, which I kept a journal about never sharing with anyone until now.
One of my friend’s (Austin) and a family member I gave a wristband to, took a picture of it on their wrist and shared it with me. Soon-after another person sent a picture and then another, and it took off and brought tears to my eyes. To see such love and support I thought, “why can’t we spread this type of love, support and awareness around the world?” I credit my wife with “TogetherForSharon®” because we were all able to come together in her honor.
Our family sent over 1,000 wristbands worldwide for awareness and to ensure my mother is never forgotten due to PD.
We continue to raise awareness in memory of my mother, Sharon to help raise awareness of Parkinson’s Disease and hope for a cure for those battling today and their families because no one should ever feel alone in this fight toward a cure.
We will continue and have no plans to stop sharing my story and be a voice for those who can no longer speak for themselves due to this disease.
I hope you will help us by sharing your story and your support for a cure.
Sharon’s Son, George.
More About Sharon's Son, George
Dr. George M. Ackerman is a college professor in criminal justice, business, and law. He received his Ph.D. from the School of Public Service Leadership, Capella University; J.D. from the Shepard Broad Law Center, Nova Southeastern University; and police certification from Miami-Dade College School of Justice. His current energy is focused on advocating for a cure for Parkinson’s disease through a wide range of avenues and outreach activities.
Dr. Ackerman has participated in numerous charity events; has addressed community, governmental, and international groups; has interviewed people living with Parkinson’s, researchers, and advocates; has given interviews; has written about his experiences; and has participated in and conducted seminars, with plans for continued and additional activities. He also leads support groups on caregiving and loss.
Dr.Ackerman founded https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ in memory of his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman, to increase Parkinson’s awareness and research toward a cure. His dedicated interest in and passion for this work to ensure others never feel alone.
Dr. Ackerman’s other interests include running charity 5Ks, basketball, and family time with his wife and three wonderful children.