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Never stop fighting

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Photo by Rob Culpepper.

Photo by Catherine Mayo.

Photo courtesy of Dan Thomasson.

Parkinson’s disease impacts an estimated one million people in the United States. A progressive neurological disorder associated with a loss of dopamine-generating cells in the brain, it can take a heavy toll on the patient’s loved ones. 

Locally, the Parkinson Association of Alabama (PAA) aims to increase awareness and support research for new treatments by working closely with the UAB Neurology Department. This month, PAA will host a special fundraising event called Taste for the Cure at Old Car Heaven. 

Three Mountain Brook residents on the PAA Board each have a father living with Parkinson’s disease. Below, they share their stories of the effects of the disease and their thankfulness for finding a support group.

For more, visit parkinsonalabama.com.

Mimi Bittick

When Mimi Bittick’s father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1993, the future became a cloud of uncertainty. She watched as a simple tremor in her father’s thumb progressed into something that robbed him of his mind and body. 

“I am sad to say at 71 my father is well advanced in the stages of Parkinson’s and is facing a very bleak future,” she said. “However, I am pleased to report that since his diagnosis the treatments, therapies and support for Parkinson’s patients have come leaps and bounds. It seems more people are aware of the disease and more and more I meet people who are closely related to someone affected by it.”  

Dan Thomasson

Dan Thomasson’s father, Albert, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 15 years ago. Soon after Dan became involved with the PAA and eventually joined its board. 

“Parkinson’s is an insidious disease,” he said. “In some ways the slow progression is good because it gives you time to prepare for its consequences, but it is also very hard emotionally on not only those diagnosed with the disease but also their family members and other caregivers.”

Mary Katherine Cabaniss

When Mary Katherine Cabaniss’ father was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, her whole family fell into shock. After years of stressfully working, her father had no choice but to face retirement.

“As we have learned, Parkinson’s is not only difficult for the patient, but also for those who love and care for him,” she said. “I have no doubt that he would have never retired had it not been for a Parkinson’s diagnosis. The silver lining is that he now has time to spend with family and friends and the energy to take better care of himself.”

Despite lifestyle changes, Cabaniss said her father is doing well and has retained his sense of humor. She credits PAA for being an incredible resource during this difficult time. 

“I’ve raised money for many nonprofits in the past, but the passionate and caring members of PAA make it special,” she said. “Dan and Mimi have been a great resource for me. I hate that others are facing the same struggles, but I’m glad to have found a kind, caring group of people willing to work together to make a real difference.”

Taste for a Cure

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