Finding Strength Together: Dave & Mary’s Story
When Dave was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2015, he faced the news with the same determination that had shaped his life.
Dave's journey had already taken him from the U.S. Navy to a 22-year career as a New York State Trooper. Later, after earning his teaching degree, he answered the call to serve again, deploying to Iraq with the Army National Guard as a combat engineer responsible for locating and neutralizing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Years later, Parkinson's would present a very different kind of challenge.
About three years ago, on the recommendation of his chiropractor, Dave joined Parkinson's Dynamics. Today, he travels about an hour from his home to attend two to three days each week.
“I came to stay ahead of the disease,” he says.
At Parkinson's Dynamics, Dave participates in programs designed to address the many challenges Parkinson's can present—from strength and balance to manual dexterity, voice and cognitive function.
While Parkinson's continues to progress, Dave says the program has helped him maintain his strength, improve his balance and regain abilities he feared he had lost.
“A couple of years ago, I couldn't tie a knot,” he says. “Now I can.”
That simple accomplishment means something much bigger. An avid fly fisherman, Dave can once again tie his own flies and enjoy time on the water with his son.
For Dave, it's a reminder that Parkinson's doesn't have to mean giving up the things he loves.
But the benefits of Parkinson's Dynamics extend far beyond exercise.
“It's just like a family,” Dave says. “Everyone is here to help.”
He describes coaches who understand Parkinson's and teach practical skills participants can use every day—from improving mobility and safely stepping off a curb to exercises they can continue at home.
Just as meaningful are the friendships formed with others who are facing the same diagnosis.
“The disease is scary,” Dave explains, “but you find you're overcoming it.”
A Journey for Two
For his wife, Mary, Parkinson's Dynamics has transformed her life as well.
A former teaching assistant who now volunteers with the organization, Mary has witnessed firsthand how Parkinson's changed their daily routines.
“He did everything,” she says. “Now we're more of a team. We're more connected.”
Mary believes Parkinson's Dynamics serves not only participants, but entire families.
“The support for caregivers is so important,” she explains. “You have a place to share your heart with people who understand. They give you tips, encouragement, and hope.”
For Mary, that support has made an enormous difference.
“This is like a life preserver,” she says. “Your life can get better with this program. It's tremendous.”
Finding a Way Forward
Today, Dave has become one of the people encouraging those who are newly diagnosed. His advice reflects the determination that has carried him through a lifetime of service.
“It's not the end of the world,” he says. “Do something to try to tame it.”
Dave and Mary's story is one of countless stories unfolding every day in families affected by Parkinson's. Their experience reminds us that Parkinson's changes lives—but it doesn't have to take away strength, connection, purpose or hope.
Everyone knows someone with Parkinson's. And no one should have to face it alone.