A Dilemma or a Gift? My Vote Has Become About Something Greater Than Politics
For years, like many Americans, I followed elections, listened to campaign promises, and considered where candidates stood on the issues. Over time, however, my perspective changed.
Today, my vote is about something much more personal.
It is about Parkinson’s disease.
Before I support any candidate—whether they are running for city council, county commissioner, state legislature, Congress, or any other public office—I ask for one simple thing: take five to ten minutes to help raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease and recognize the millions of individuals, caregivers, and families whose lives are forever changed by this devastating disease.
That is all.
I’m not asking for a campaign donation. I’m not asking for an endorsement. I’m not asking anyone to change their political platform.
I’m asking for a few minutes to shine a light on a disease that too often remains in the shadows.
My mother, Sharon, fought Parkinson’s disease with incredible strength and dignity. Watching her battle this progressive illness forever changed my life. After losing her, I made a promise that her story—and the stories of so many others—would not be forgotten.
That promise became TogetherForSharon®, an initiative dedicated to education, awareness, research, and hope for those living with Parkinson’s disease.
What continues to surprise me is how difficult it can be to secure even a few minutes from public officials. Some never respond. Others decline. Meanwhile, these same individuals spend months asking for our votes, support, and trust.
If someone cannot spare five or ten minutes to acknowledge a community facing one of the fastest-growing neurological diseases in the world, what message does that send to those families?
Leadership is about more than legislation and campaign speeches. It is about compassion. It is about listening. It is about standing beside people when there is nothing to gain politically.
Parkinson’s disease does not care whether someone is a Democrat, Republican, Independent, or belongs to any other political party. It affects people of every background, every community, and every political belief. Awareness should never be a partisan issue.
This is why my expectations have changed.
My vote is no longer determined solely by campaign promises or party affiliation. It is also influenced by whether a candidate demonstrates genuine compassion for people living with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders.
Five minutes may seem insignificant in the middle of a busy campaign.
To a family living with Parkinson’s disease, those five minutes can mean recognition, hope, and the knowledge that someone in public office is willing to listen.
I will continue asking. I will continue advocating. I will continue honoring my mother’s legacy.
Because if we can convince even one more leader to spend a few minutes talking about Parkinson’s disease, we may inspire thousands more people to learn, care, support research, and stand with families who need to know they are not alone.
For me, that is what leadership looks like.
And that is something worth voting for.
Photo Credit: https://www.csusm.edu/elections/index.html