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Former Glen Ellyn Family Honors and Pays Tribute to Loved Ones Affected by Parkinson's Disease at Moving Day Chicago Event on October 15

For ten years, John Kohler of Chicago watched his father-in-law battle Parkinson's disease. He never imagined that one day he too would face the challenges of this neurodegenerative disorder. However, in the late summer of 2016, when the twitching in his left thumb became concerning, he suspected the cause and sought medical advice. After seeing several doctors, John was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

As a way to further the Parkinson's movement, the Kohlers and their friends will join thousands of others in Chicago's Lincoln Park at the Parkinson's Foundation's Moving Day® Chicago on October 15, 2017. Emceed by Joanie Lum of FOX32 Chicago, Moving Day will feature a family-friendly 2-mile walk course as well as a movement pavilion offering activities proven to help manage Parkinson's symptoms, resource pavilion, children's activities and entertainment. Registration will open at 9 a.m. and Moving Day will take place rain or shine.

"A Parkinson's diagnosis can stir up a wide range of emotions and require many adjustments," said John. "Being familiar with the disease through my father-in-law's experience has helped me cope with this new reality; however, we are quickly learning that everyone's path is different and having support from others is critical."

John's daughter Sarah, a Glen Ellyn native, is making certain her father feels supported. As captain of "Kohler's Crew" for Moving Day Chicago, Sarah is recruiting friends and family - as many as 20 people - to walk in honor of John. "Kohler's Crew's" team fundraising goal continues to change, as they have soared past their original goal of raising $1,500.

"Our team has reached beyond family and friends into the community to fundraise for an organization that has become so important to us," said Sarah. "I'm proud of our efforts and am touched by how generously people and businesses have shown their support. I'm confident we will far surpass our latest fundraising goal of $5,000 and feel good knowing these funds will help support research and patient programs."

One year since his diagnosis, John's thumb twitch is now a full blown tremor, which he manages with medication. Common among those with Parkinson's, John is also experiencing non-motor symptoms, such as insomnia and vivid dreams. He is committing to an exercise program that will help with weight loss and improve mobility and overall well-being.

John maintains a pragmatic and positive outlook, and strives to make an impact on the Parkinson's community. The Kohlers have always been engaged in their community, serving on nonprofits boards and volunteering for causes close to their heart.

In addition to his family's participation in Moving Day Chicago, John plans to register in a clinical trial that could be beneficial to him as well as the Parkinson's community at large.

Moving Day Chicago

Moving Day walks nationwide celebrate the role of movement for those living with Parkinson's and fundraise for local health, wellness and education programs.

Registration is free, and participants are encouraged to fundraise for The Parkinson's Foundation. In 2016, walkers collectively raised $412,000 for local Parkinson's programs.

For more information, visit MovingDayChicago.org.

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