Parkinson’s affects everyone differently. And each individual’s approach to living with it is just as variable.
Jimmy Choi was just 27 when he was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease. He initially kept his diagnosis a secret and 7 years on he was still in denial. Having gained a lot of weight and suffering a bad fall he knew that he had to make changes. An article in a magazine about a man running a marathon with Parkinson’s was the turning point for Jimmy. Jimmy started out small and made a commitment to run some 5km races. He has now run 14 marathons and raised over 200,000 for Parkinson’s research. Running and exercise allowed him to confront the disease head-on and regain control of his life. The rest is history.
Exercise has allowed Jimmy to manage his on/off period better and by strengthening his muscles his balance is better
“I don’t move like other runners, cyclists, and I certainly don’t move like other ninjas. Yet I try to find ways to defy the odds presented to me. When one road is blocked, change your course. You will find a way,” says Jimmy.