An interview with Pam Mashburn on Advocacy and Tik Tok on January 10, 2024 by George Ackerman, Ph.D, J.D.
Biography
My name is Pamela Mashburn and, I am from the North Georgia Mountains and now reside in sunny Tampa, FL. I enjoy spending time with my son who was diagnosed with Trisomy 9p at birth. I also spend most of my time sharing my poetry and utilizing TikTok to spread awareness to Parkinson.
Winning the Fight
https://youtube.com/watch?v=MM8TqJE8-oA&si=O-QVx0K-c1Jjk9He
Can you tell me more about your organization?
I utilize TikTok and other social media to spread awareness.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
I am very passionate about finding a cure. I watched my grandmother suffer from this devasting disease, and shortly after her passing I was diagnosed in 2012.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
Motivating and supporting.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
Development stage
What effect can it have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
Financial assistance with caregivers and long-term care, as well as individualized medication management.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your programs?
Funding
What events do you participate in?
Symposiums
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Provides information to be utilized allowing for an individualized care plan.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
TikTok @pamelamashburn548
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Surrounding yourself with supportive people who encourage sharing and not isolating.
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Communication
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
More education in all medical facilities. Exposing the reality of the disease by allowing yourself to become vulnerable by sharing the good and bad days.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Exercise which involves shooting hoops, walking, weightlifting, and yoga. Nutrition, massage therapy, spiritual beliefs, creative writing, and support groups.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
To decrease abuse and medical neglect in all arenas of healthcare.
Eliminating extra stress and carrying the burden of proving an already devasting disease.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
My grandmother
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life which song would it be?
Wild Hearts can’t be broken, artist Pink
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Hear my Voice