I was incredibly honored to speak at the 2025 Western Anesthesia Residency Conference where I was able to share my journey with the physicians who helped train me and the next generation of anesthesiologists.
In this talk, I share the winding path that brought me from military service and medicine to a Parkinson’s diagnosis—and what came after. I reflect on how a silly flight surgeon call sign, “Yoda,” began as a joke but came to represent something much deeper as I faced one of the hardest chapters of my life. Like many, I struggled with what it meant to lose pieces of an identity I had worked so hard to build. But along the way, I began to rediscover strength in unexpected places: in movement, in gratitude, and in the stories we choose to tell each other.
This isn’t a talk about having all the answers—it’s about learning to live with the questions, and letting go of the idea that we have to be strong all the time. I’ve made a lot of mistakes, had some really hard days, and been surprised by the moments that ended up mattering most. If nothing else, I hope this story helps others feel less alone in theirs—and maybe even reminds us all that sometimes, the greatest strength is in showing up honestly, even when we’re still figuring things out.
One of the most meaningful parts of this experience was reconnecting with the anesthesiologists who trained me and the colleagues who shaped the early years of my career. Walking into that room felt like coming full circle—seeing the familiar faces of mentors, teachers, and old friends reminded me just how much of who I am was formed alongside them. There was laughter, long-overdue hugs, and a sense of shared history that I didn’t realize how much I’d missed.
It was also incredibly humbling to stand in front of them and share my story—not as the resident they once knew, but as someone who’s been through a lot since then. Talking about Parkinson’s, vulnerability, and identity in front of people I’ve admired for so long was humbling but it was grounding and healing in a way I didn’t expect. I’m so grateful for the kindness and encouragement they offered, and reminded once again that community—especially among those who know your beginnings—can be one of the most powerful parts of the journey.
You can reach Sara at parkinsonzexercise@gmail.com.
