Welcome to Parkinsonz
A website by Sara Whittingham MD to educate, empower, and connect other individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. Through shared experiences, we will fight this disease, stay positive and live life to the fullest. Inspired by the PD Warriors of The Parkinson’s Fight Club.
“We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.” — Confusius
protect those Who Protect us
Tell Congress to stand with our troops and veterans by upholding the TCE/PCE ban—because protecting their health and the health of their families comes before protecting industry profits.
Defend Our Defenders: Stop the Repeal of the TCE/PCE Ban
In January, a long-overdue Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule was set to take effect, banning two toxic chemicals—trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE)—that have been linked to Parkinson’s disease, cancer, and other devastating health conditions. These chemicals, widely used as industrial degreasers, have contaminated groundwater at multiple military bases, including the infamous Camp Lejeune. They have poisoned the very people who pledged their lives in service to our country. But now, that ban is in jeopardy. Certain legislators, under pressure from manufacturing industry lobbyists, are trying to repeal it. If they succeed, they will be choosing corporate interests over the health and lives of our service members, veterans, and their families. We cannot let this happen. TCE and PCE have been used for decades on military bases worldwide, exposing countless service members to these dangerous toxins. The link between TCE exposure and Parkinson’s disease is well documented, with research led by
My Journey
I am a physician, a USAF veteran, a triathlete, a wife and a mother. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020 at the age of 46. I pictured myself on a steady downward trajectory and being completely disabled in a few years. I suffered from anxiety and depression and gained 30 pounds.
I enrolled in a research study at Cleveland Clinic studying the effects of high cadence cycling the progression of Parkinson’s disease. I quickly realized that the more I rode the bike the better I felt.
I started to run again, and decided to sign up for a half ironman triathlon. I set bigger and bigger goals, until I eventually made it to the finish line of Ironman Hawaii.
Exercise is the only thing shown to slow the progression of the disease. With Parkinson’s it is even more difficult to exercise and even more important.
My goal is to educate and inspire others to fight this disease through exercise, gratitude and positivity, to set big goals, and life life to our fullest.
No One Fights Alone: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health in Parkinson’s
Sara Whittingham MD Based on a Facebook discussion initiated by Michael Quaglia Parkinson’s disease is often thought of primarily as
Defend Our Defenders: Stop the Repeal of the TCE/PCE Ban
In January, a long-overdue Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule was set to take effect, banning two toxic chemicals—trichloroethylene (TCE) and
Understanding Pisa Syndrome in Parkinson’s Disease
Sara Whittingham MD March 17, 2025 Pisa syndrome is a condition where a person’s body starts leaning significantly to one
Exploring the New Continuous Carbidopa-Levodopa Pump for Parkinson’s
A new continuous Carbidopa-Levodopa (C/L) pump (Vyalev) has sparked interest in the Parkinson’s community, offering 24-hour medication delivery and the
Cold Therapy and Parkinson’s: Exploring the Benefits and Challenges
A Summary of a discussion on The Parkinson’s Fight Club (click to see and comment on actual discussion). A recent
Navigating Career Growth with Young-Onset Parkinson’s
Balancing Ambition, Stress, and Health For many people diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD), career planning becomes a complex and
Empower U:Cleveland Clinic
I had the privilege of speaking at a conference for people with Parkinson’s Disease today. I spoke alongside PD Rockstars
PD in the Paralympics
Rower Todd Vogt will soon be off to Paris to represent the United States and the Parkinson’s Community at the Paralympics. Todd
3 NEOMED Students to run 75 miles to raise money and awareness for Parkinson’s Research
This weekend, 3 Northeast Ohio Medical University students will take on a 75 mile ultra-marathon with the goal of raising
NEOMED Students Raise Over $60,000 for Parkinson’s Research
by Sara Whittingham MD Northeast Ohio Medical University students Hunter Bonfiglio, Alex Keith and Nick Sciaretti finished the grueling 75 mile
US Paralympic Rower with Parkinson’s, Todd Vogt, Makes us Proud in Paris
by Sara Whittingham MD After an intense 3 days of rowing, Todd Vogt and Sage Harper won the B Final
Advocacy for Post 9/11 Veterans with Parkinson’s Disease
by Sara Whittingham MD About 18 months after my Parkinson’s diagnosis, I learned through a mutual friend that one of our
Books to Inspire
A few of my favorite books to get started. I spend a lot of time in my car, and when I am home don’t sit in one place very well, so I love to listen to audiobooks because I can be driving, or folding laundry or basically anything.
Gifts And Gasgets For The Parkinsonz Warrior In Collaboration With:
- Motor Symptoms
- Non Motor Symptoms
- Learn from others
- Share what works for you
Parkinson's Warriors
To all the incredible individuals who have faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, we celebrate your strength and resilience. You are not defined by the obstacles you encounter but by the courage you show in overcoming them. Each day, you inspire others with your unwavering spirit, reminding us that hope and determination can light the path forward. Your journey is a testament to the power of community and support, and together, we can raise awareness, share stories, and foster a world where every warrior feels empowered and understood. Thank you for being a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration to many.
Get Featured
At Parkinsonz, we are dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for those affected by Parkinson’s disease. Our “Get Featured” section aims to highlight inspiring stories, research advancements, and community initiatives that contribute to the fight against Parkinson’s. By sharing your experiences and insights, you can help us foster a supportive network and inspire others on their journey. Join us in making a difference and let your voice be heard!
In Collaboration with
