Thriving with Parkinson’s: My Story and the Power of Connection
After noticing an intermittent tremor in my right hand, along with changes in my penmanship over the course of about three months, I sought an evaluation from a neurologist. I was fortunate to be seen by a movement disorder specialist on my very first visit.
After a 40-minute evaluation—assessing my writing, gait, medical history, and eye-hand coordination—the doctor said four words that forever changed my life:
“You have Parkinson’s disease.”
I sat in silence, trying to absorb what he had just said. My first response was, “How do I have an old person’s disease when I’m not that old?”
He explained that, at age 54, I was not “too young” for Parkinson’s. It affects people of all ages and knows no boundaries. He also emphasized that “no two Parkinson’s patients are the same.”
When I asked about further tests or imaging, he explained they weren’t necessary. A thorough history and neurological exam were enough for a diagnosis. That clinical diagnosis was given to me on Friday, May 28, 2010, at 11:00 a.m.—a moment etched in my memory as a benchmark in my life.
Facing the Diagnosis
When I got home, my husband asked how the visit went. Zombie-like, I told him, “He said I have Parkinson’s disease.” He was as stunned as I was.
In the weeks that followed, I immersed myself in research. But after a while, I had to stop reading. So much of what I found painted a bleak picture, and it was overwhelming.
At the time, I was a family nurse practitioner working in a very busy practice, while also raising seven children. Suddenly, I felt isolated, anxious, and fearful about the future. I confided these feelings to a close friend.
A few days later, she came back to me and said: “Margie, we are going to Glasgow, Scotland to attend a World Parkinson Congress this September.”
The Power of Connection
Attending that 2010 World Parkinson Congress (WPC) in Glasgow was one of the best decisions I made early in my Parkinson’s journey. The experience was beyond my expectations.
Yes, I often felt overwhelmed, but there was always someone available to answer questions or offer support. I learned more in those few days than I had in months of reading. I met people living with Parkinson’s, caregivers, doctors, occupational therapists, physical therapists—an entire global community united in learning, researching, and advocating for better lives for people with Parkinson’s.
I came away with something invaluable: I no longer felt alone.
Three years later, in October 2013, I attended the 3rd WPC in Montreal, Canada, with my same dear friend. We immersed ourselves in early sessions, late sessions, and ancillary meetings. Once again, WPC delivered the highest-quality education, research, innovations, and technologies. I left feeling renewed, empowered, and part of something bigger.
In 2016, I attended the 4th WPC in Portland, Oregon, and once again experienced the same powerful sense of connection and empowerment.
Becoming an Ambassador
Although I wasn’t able to attend the 2019 Congress in Japan or the 2023 Congress in Barcelona, I stayed closely connected. After the 6th WPC, I learned about the Ambassador Program, which brings together individuals from around the world to encourage, support, and promote the upcoming Congress.
I am deeply honored to have been selected as a WPC 2026 Ambassador.
The 7th World Parkinson Congress will take place May 24–27, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona.
If you, a loved one, a family member, or a friend are touched by Parkinson’s disease, I strongly encourage you to attend. You will not be disappointed. You’ll meet incredible people who truly “have your back.”
Looking Ahead to WPC 2026
To learn more about the Congress and register, visit WPC2026.org.
You’ll find details about registration, hotels, travel grants, and many other opportunities to be part of this extraordinary event.
After more than 15 years of living with Parkinson’s, I am still alive, well, and thriving. I am counting down the days until May 2026, when I’ll gather again with this incredible community.
When people ask me what life with Parkinson’s is like, I tell them:
“Parkinson’s is indeed the elephant in my room, but he’s seated in the corner. He does not block my entrance—or my exit—from anything in life.”
I truly hope to see you in Phoenix. I guarantee you’ll come away with your mind, body, and spirit enriched—and maybe even some new lifelong friends.
Margie R. Zimmerman was a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and she is living with Parkinson’s since 2010. She has attended past WPC Congresses. She is currently WPC 2026 Ambassador.
Ideas and opinions expressed in this post reflect that of the author(s) solely. They do not reflect the opinions or positions of the World Parkinson Coalition®