An interview with Robbie Messmer: An Unusual Journey, So Far.
Biography
Born in Hettinger ND. Raised in Lemmon SD. Graduated Lemmon SD in 1983. I worked at West River Telephone for 12 years. Moved to Newcastle WY. I worked at RT Communications 24 years. Transmission Team Leader.
Diagnosed with PD in 2015. I retired from work in 2018. Health Coach. Crazy Muscle tag team member. Who’s Who in America 2021 Top Executive. Inventor Leadershinz Fish Attractant
Author. Advocate for the Michael J Fox Foundation
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
I have committed to helping as many people as I can while I am still able to.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
I was currently active on social media, and I answered questions as a health coach to all the PD groups I could get into. One morning I can remember answering 90 or more questions. I even ran into someone who had just been diagnosed and was adamant she was going to kill herself. I talked her into joining me on a different platform and talked her out of it.
As far as I got involved with MJFF I’m still not exactly sure. It just happened
What type of goals does individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
I am a firm believer that by taking care of yourself and strengthening your body you can changed how the disease affects you.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinsons?
I have been told many times that I inspire people to keep pushing forward. The disease doesn’t have to overtake you.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
I would like to continue my advocacy here in SD by joining all the local groups and continuing meetings with congressional members. Continuing advocacy with MJFF
What events do you participate in?
Helped get NPPA passed in 2024
Congressional meetings in DC
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Through my past experience as a health coach I can answer questions from any caregiver on effects on the body and mind.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BKdB1dv7K/
Instagram. @messmerrobb123
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Anyone can be an advocate for awareness just by educating themselves as much as possible about the disease.
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Awareness and care
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Continue to raise awareness about the disease anywhere, anytime is what I say.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Workout twice a day. Some supplements can help. Staying active is biggest remedy.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Because it happens so fast and can happen to anyone.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
Yes my uncle was diagnosed a few years after I was.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
Metallica – Unforgiven.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
“you can have a normal life”
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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