Garden Walk benefits Parkinson's disease research
Each weekend thousands of people take to the streets of our communities, walking and running to raise money for charities. Every one of them has found a cause to believe in, a bit of hope through helping. And every one of them has a reason for being there.
Today, Mary Anne Ostrenga of Naperville shares how Parkinson's disease has changed her life and why she organizes the Team Fox Garden Walk, which supports the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
Since being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2001, I have found compassion and generosity from unexpected acquaintances, friends and relatives, and I am eternally grateful for their help and support.
With the encouragement of many people, I have learned to cope with this debilitating neurological progressive disease, and to live each day to the fullest. Live now, find your passion and follow it. No one can predict what you will face in your personal journey of life.
Coping with Parkinson's has helped me become more courageous, more sympathetic and more compassionate. I am amazed at the generosity of previous neighbors and old friends who have helped with donations of time and money to help organize the third annual Team Fox Garden Walk and Reception on Sunday, June 28, in Naperville. All proceeds benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
Parkinson's slowly crept into my life, causing me to wonder what was wrong with me. My body began to slow down, my hands tremored and I began to lose my balance and would frequently fall down. My handwriting began to disappear and my voice got softer and softer. Brushing my teeth became awkward and rolling over in bed became a conscious effort.
Then the internal earthquakes began; no one else could tell that my insides were shaking. Little did I know that having Parkinson's would change my life physically, intellectually and emotionally forever.
I decided to learn more about the disease and to become an advocate for research. I went to see a movement disorder neurologist who told me he was 100 percent sure I had Parkinson's disease. After several months of finding the correct amount of medication to calm the symptoms and starting an exercise program, I began to feel more in control.
I did not personally know anyone with Parkinson's, so I began to follow Michael J. Fox's public journey with the disease. In 2006 I heard his plea for more Parkinson's research and decided I was going to help the cause.
In 2007 I joined Team Fox as a volunteer to raise funds for Parkinson research. Team Fox is the volunteer division of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
I chose to organize a garden walk fundraiser because I love to garden and wanted to share my passion with others. Using my passion I am able to enjoy my flowers and work toward my purpose, which is to raise funds for Parkinson's research.
This year our Team Fox Garden Walk will feature six private gardens in Naperville. A reception follows at 5 p.m. at DuPage River Park, 808 Royce Road, Naperville. There will food and beverages, the Louise Kelly Band, guest neurologists, a silent auction, a raffle and door prizes.
Tickets are $50 for the adults-only event. All proceeds benefit the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. To make a donation, order tickets or become a sponsor, go to www.teamfox.org/teamfox/ostrenga or e-mail teamfoxgardenwalk@yahoo.com.
Tickets also are available at The Growing Place, 25W471 Plank Road, Naperville. Tickets will be available from 1 to 5 p.m. on the day of the walk at the corner of Apple River Drive and Royce Woods Court, and from 5 to 6 p.m. at the reception.
The most surprising thing that I have learned about having Parkinson's is that almost everyone says "yes" when you ask for their help. When you tell your story and make it personal, people step up to the plate and help you.
I hope I live to see the day that a cure for Parkinson's disease is found. For now, I am driven to be the best that I can be.
Living with Parkinson's every day brings new challenges, which I try to face the best that I can. Try to be an optimist, be happy and people will enjoy being with you and become a part of your journey with Parkinson's.
If you go
What: Team Fox Garden Walk and Reception
Why: Proceeds benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
When: 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 28, with reception from 5 to 8 p.m.
Where: Six private gardens in Naperville; reception at DuPage River Park, 808 Royce Road, Naperville
Cost: $50
Tickets: Available in advance at www.teamfox.org/teamfox/ostrenga or The Growing Place, 25W471 Plank Road, Naperville; available on the day of the walk at Apple River Drive at Royce Woods Court
Info: www.teamfox.org/teamfox/ostrenga or teamfoxgardenwalk@yahoo.com