An interview with Tim Lockard: FINDING MY PD POWERS on June 13, 2024.
Biography
My name is Tim Lockard. I am the father of 3 wonderful sons. I live in New Jersey. I work in the automotive industry for over 30 years and was diagnosed with pd about 4 years ago
Can you tell me more about your Instagram page?
I started an Instagram page called MYPDPARTY. I just thought it would be nice for those struggling and caregiving that they are not alone in this fight and that there is a whole wonderful pd community willing to share their info, positivity and heart. I want to bring awareness to this disease and fundraise for a cure.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
I got involved after I sat home for years after my diagnostic and realized that I needed to stand up and fight. This disease preys on weakness and idle time. This mission has given me a purpose.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
My page is dedicated to anyone effected by PD in any way,
What effect can your advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
Show them they are not alone in the fight and how they feel in those quiet moments. Brings a smile, positivity and any info that anyone is willing to offer. You’d be amazed how much knowledge can be shared by those affected.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your advocacy?
A safe place for those affected to feel safe talking about their journey with others. I’ve made new PD pals all over the world already that I video chat with and laugh and share our journey. Once the population on the page grows, I’d like to fundraise, have merchandise giveaways, etc.
What events do you participate in?
Right now, currently planning a massive soccer tournament fundraiser in NJ where the proceeds go the PD research.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
They need this info and positivity as much as those who suffer.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
MYPDPARTY on Instagram
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Simple, stand up and get involved. silence and idle time never fixed anything
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Being honest, speak from the heart and being persistent.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Constant movement, working out, rock steady boxing and speaking to people on my site.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Because no one had Parkinson’s ……. until they DID.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
No
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life which song would it be?
Walk by the Foo Fighters.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
PD can be very confusing and frustrating since it affects everyone in different ways. You need to know you’re not alone in your fight and there are plenty of resources such as my site and others that are ready to welcome you in with open arms