An interview with Jeremy McDonald on Supporting Awareness on July 1, 2023 by George Ackerman, Ph.D, J.D.
Biography
I grew up in St Louis. MO where I still live with my wife and son. I was diagnosed with YOPD in January 2013 at the age of 36. I was an avid musician, skateboarder, and motorcycle rider before Parkinson’s.
Can you tell me more about your advocacy?
I have a YouTube channel where I discuss the various aspects of living with YOPD.
Each week I pick a topic regarding life with PD and film a short video about it. I include non-motor symptoms such as depression, apathy, and cognitive changes. I don’t shy away from the most serious issues but always try to find some spark of humor to lighten things up a bit.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
Music is my passion whether singing, playing guitar, or simply listening to my record collection. I stumbled my way into advocacy!
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your advocacy?
Most if not all of my viewers simply want to hear someone say and/or describe what they go through on a daily basis.
What type of advocacy do you work with?
My videos are usually between 5-10 minutes.
What effect can your advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
My viewers tell me that I cheer them up and make them smile. Humor is a big part of my outreach.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your advocacy?
I enjoy connecting with people from all over the world and all walks of life. More of this.
What events do you participate in?
PD support groups online.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/jeremymcdonald
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jeremymac76/
https://www.facebook.com/Jeremymcdonaldmusic
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Be yourself and be honest.
I often remind myself of the old George Harrison song “All Things Must Pass”. Having a bad day? Don’t worry! It will pass. Having a great day? Enjoy every moment because this, too, will pass. Live in the moment. Tomorrow never comes, anyway.