An interview with Maria Andreou: Blessing Through Pain……
Biography
My name is Maria Andreou. I am a single mother of 4. I have been going through my health issue journey without support since it began. For that reason, I have been trying to advocate and raise awareness so that I can help others in a similar situation like mine. My journey began in November 2012.
Please tell me a little about your background.
I come from a background of extreme domestic violence, yet I didn’t let it break me. I rose like a phoenix, and I managed to achieve quite a bit without anyone’s help. Exercising and helping people has been what gave me strength and motivated me to continue stronger.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
It hasn’t been easy, as I live on an island where people either dismiss you due to your age, or they don’t want to deal with knowing the scary parts of life. I have tried to extend my advocacy abroad, but it hasn’t been easy. Dystonia (what holds hands with my Parkinson’s) is not a condition that is known in a small society like mine.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion is exercise, dancing, I speak 7 languages (self-taught), I crochet and I write. Not published yet, but hopefully someday soon.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
To gain from my positive energy and my smile. Also to discover how it is possible for a person with so many issues can be so pleasant and positive. That is something I am proud of.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
I am still in the beginning. So, I am still organizing everything.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
Never give up! Parkinson’s doesn’t define us. We are not to be blamed for our health issues. We didn’t choose to have Parkinson’s; therefore, we take it like just an unwanted visitor.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
More people with Parkinson’s having a positive outlook on life and being able to discuss every detail, embarrassing and not with others that will understand. Maybe one person has more experience or an answer to something that’s troubling another. A community that provides safe space for everyone.
What events do you participate in?
Unfortunately, nothing major unless it’s something I notice online.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
They can be educated on how we feel, our experiences, through this illness. How it develops and how it is not the same for all. The pains we have to endure and that we are not lazy.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
https://www.facebook.com/share/18D2WyT2xw/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://www.facebook.com/share/1CistgibAa/?mibextid=wwXIfr
TikTok: @supergirldesaint
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
They can share and speak up whether they have Parkinson’s or they want to share out of empathy. It is how we will get a community big enough that will support people that are going through this difficult journey.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Speak, Speak, share , speak!!!!!
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Each one must offer even the minimum in an effort to fund the effort to find a cure.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Swimming, walking, strengthening your core first. Balance issues can be challenging so take it one day at a time.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Because we never know how and who it might affect. Also, people united can achieve greatness. Whether it’s for Parkinson’s or any other condition, the more people know and unite, the better the result!
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
I was told mine is genetic and my great grandmother had it.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRNPkJ0ELPc
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Always, Always be grateful for being diagnosed and getting even the smallest help. See the light even if you think it’s not there.
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!