An interview with Justine Barretta: Raising Voices: A Family’s Fight for Parkinson’s Awareness
Biography
I come from a close-knit family impacted directly by Parkinson’s through my father, Frank. My professional work (Human Resources) centers around people, support, and advocacy, which naturally carried into my personal life as our family navigated this journey.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
My advocacy focuses on emotional support and sharing personal experience to help others feel less alone. I aim to humanize Parkinson’s by speaking openly about caregiving, family impact, and hope. This is all through my podcast with my Dad, Frank – Frankly Speaking: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xnkcB9gY0eZhyMMCYVVJ1?si=606e3fe6b59244e9&nd=1&dlsi=b9e09251e93b40e9
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion comes from watching someone I love battle Parkinson’s with strength. I became involved to turn fear into purpose—raising awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting families seeking clarity and community. How can we make Parkinson’s feel less frightening and create inspiration through real, open conversations?
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
People often look for hope, community, and reassurance. They want to see themselves reflected through shared experience and understand that they are not alone in what they’re navigating.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
My advocacy helps individuals feel seen and supported. Hearing another family’s story can provide comfort, reduce fear, and empower people to seek resources earlier.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
I hope to expand awareness on a larger platform—speaking events, community programs, and deeper partnerships with organizations advancing research and caregiver support.
What events do you participate in?
I participate in awareness campaigns, storytelling initiatives, community support circles, and ongoing educational efforts/Parkinson’s research. Ex. Parkinson’s Unity Walk in Central Park, NYC.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Caregivers gain validation, emotional support, and practical insights from someone who has walked in their shoes. Shared stories ease isolation and strengthen resilience.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
At this time I can be reached via email (justinebarretta@gmail.com) for partnerships/outreach or social channels (https://www.instagram.com/franklyspeakingparkinsons/) .
Podcast link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xnkcB9gY0eZhyMMCYVVJ1?si=606e3fe6b59244e9&nd=1&dlsi=b9e09251e93b40e9
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
By sharing their stories, speaking up, joining awareness walks, supporting research, and using their platforms—no action is too small.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Empathy, consistency, and truth. Effective advocacy comes from authenticity—using personal experience to drive understanding and connection.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
By broadening storytelling, increasing community engagement, and making donation avenues more personal and accessible.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Daily movement (running or pilates), mindfulness practices (meditation), and grounding routines all help maintain emotional and physical balance while supporting a loved one.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Because Parkinson’s affects families, communities, and future generations. Awareness leads to earlier detection, better support, and stronger advocacy.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
Yes—my father, Frank, has Parkinson’s, which is the foundation of my work and passion.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
‘Sunny by Boney M.
Frank is a big fan of Faith Hill, his would be: “The Way You Love Me”
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
“You are stronger than you realize, and none of us walk this alone.”
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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!